A tourist was killed last week at Taliesin West, the historic Arizona desert home and studio of famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright, after strong winds dislodged a piece of roofing material that struck him.
Rogério Renato Mateucci, 55, a rector at the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná in Brazil, was visiting the landmark in Scottsdale on Friday afternoon when the incident occurred. Authorities confirmed that Mateucci was struck in the head by the airborne debris and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Scottsdale Police Department is investigating the incident. A spokesperson stated that detectives and crime scene personnel responded, but foul play is not suspected, and the event is being attributed to weather conditions.
Taliesin West, built starting in 1937, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and served as Wright's winter residence and architectural school. The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, which manages the property, has closed it to the public until further notice. Joe Spector, CEO of the foundation, extended condolences to Mateucci's family and loved ones.
Mateucci, who had an interest in art and architecture, was on a walking tour of the property with other individuals when the accident happened. Colleagues described him as a kind, religious man who cared for others.
Frank Lloyd Wright, who lived from 1867 to 1959, is renowned as one of America's most influential architects. His notable works include Fallingwater in Pennsylvania and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York City.