Italian Doctor Dies After Horse Riding Accident in Front of Her Daughter

Donatella Macchia, a 46-year-old doctor and mother of two, died after being thrown from a horse during a routine riding session near Milan on Friday. Her teenage daughter, Aurora, witnessed the accident. Macchia suffered a severe head injury, was rushed to hospital in critical condition, and later died in intensive care from a major head trauma and brain hemorrhage.

Macchia was a well-known figure in Italy’s medical community, where she worked in aesthetic medicine and held both clinical and research roles. Colleagues, students, and patients described her as professional, devoted, warm, energetic, generous, and beloved. She was also known for her love of horses and animals.

According to reports, the horse involved was one Macchia had previously rescued and adopted herself, underscoring her strong bond with animals and equestrian life. After her death, her organs were donated and helped save five people. She left behind her husband, Marco, and her two daughters, Aurora and Beatrice.