Brazilian University Rector Killed in Freak Accident at Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin West
A piece of metal dislodged by high winds struck and killed Rogério Renato Mateucci during a tour of the Arizona home.
Rogério Renato Mateucci, 55, the rector of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR), died Friday afternoon in Scottsdale, Arizona, when he was struck by roofing material dislodged by high winds. The incident occurred during a tour of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's historic Taliesin West home.
Mateucci was part of a tour group when the metal piece broke loose and struck him. The Scottsdale Fire Department pronounced him dead at the scene. Winds in the area reached speeds of up to 32 mph at the time of the accident, according to the National Weather Service.
PUCPR announced that classes would be canceled on Saturday and Monday, and a memorial Mass would be held in his honor. The Marist Network, a Catholic nonprofit, described Mateucci as having dedicated his life to education and the "Marista mission," praising his leadership at PUCPR. The Adventist College of Paraná stated that Mateucci made a "significant contribution to Brazilian education" and left a legacy in the lives he transformed. The Sistema Federation of Agriculture of the State of Paraná remembered him as a "man of faith" dedicated to education and the formation of people.
The Taliesin West home has been closed until further notice. The foundation's CEO, Joe Spector, extended condolences to Mateucci's family and loved ones. The Scottsdale Fire Department has been contacted for further comment.