Doesn’t this plaque seem unassuming at first glance? This is the Targa Walter Tobagi. It commemorates the life and tragic death of Walter Tobagi. He was a journalist assassinated here.
Walter Tobagi was born in Spoleto in 1947. He moved to Milan with his family. Tobagi began his journalism career early. He edited his high school newspaper. It was named La Zanzara.
After high school Walter Tobagi joined Avanti. A few months later he moved to Avvenire. He then worked at Corriere d’Informazione. Finally Tobagi joined Corriere della Sera.
Tobagi focused on social issues. He wrote about politics and the trade union movement. He dedicated himself to covering domestic terrorism in Italy. At Corriere della Sera he covered the “years of lead.”
Walter Tobagi’s professionalism was meticulous. He scrutinized every detail. He had courage. His socialist views aligned with Christian ethics. He maintained critical clarity.
In his last articles, Walter Tobagi analyzed urban realities. He described terrorists’ contradictions. He even called them “not invincible samurai.” This may have signed his death warrant.
On May 28, 1980, Walter Tobagi was murdered. He was 33 years old. The Red Brigade killed him. The assassins included Marco Barbone and Mario Marano. Five pistol shots ended his life.
The evening before, Walter Tobagi spoke at the Circolo della Stampa. He discussed press freedom and responsibility. The debate was about the Isman case. Fabio Isman was imprisoned for publishing Red Brigade interrogation minutes.
Investigations identified Walter Tobagi’s killers. The terrorists had marked him as a target. Marco Barbone confessed to the murder. He collaborated with investigators. The other members of the commando were identified.
In 1983, the trial concluded. Marco Barbone received a reduced sentence. He was released after three years. Other perpetrators received varying sentences. Manfredi De Stefano died in prison.
The city of Milan installed this Targa Walter Tobagi in 2005. It was at the request of the Lombard Association of Journalists. Walter Tobagi was president of that association. The Order of Journalists of Lombardy also supported the request.
The plaque displays words written by Walter Tobagi in 1978. It reflects his spiritual testament. He wrote about intellectual honesty. He sought to understand social divisions. Walter Tobagi aimed to improve collective behavior.
Walter Tobagi’s death deeply affected the community. People were shocked. The journalist from Corriere lay on the asphalt. He was covered by a white sheet. It was the start of his workday.
His funeral was held at Santa Maria del Rosario. Cardinal Carlo Maria Martini celebrated the mass. A large crowd paid their respects.
Walter Tobagi’s family was well-known. He was a devoted husband and father. His violent death moved everyone. His children, Luca and Margherita, cherish his memory.
Today the journalism school at the State University of Milan bears Walter Tobagi’s name. The Lombardy Order of Journalists launched the Walter Tobagi Award. It is for students of Milanese journalism schools.
Walter Tobagi’s name appears in the Journalist Memorial at the Newseum in Washington D.C.. He is also remembered at the Casa del Jazz in Rome.
Walter Tobagi’s legacy continues to inspire. He serves as an example. He encourages us to face uncertainties with determination. Remember Walter Tobagi. Remember his commitment to truth. Remember his sacrifice.