The Rector of Brazil’s Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná, Rogério Renato Mateucci, has died after being struck by roofing material blown loose by strong winds during a guided tour in Scottsdale, Arizona, in the United States.
The incident occurred at approximately 2 p.m. local time on Friday, October 16, while Mateucci was visiting Taliesin West, the former winter residence of renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, according to AZ Family, citing the Scottsdale Fire Department.
Mateucci was reportedly walking with a group near the intersection of Cactus Road and Frank Lloyd Wright Boulevard when the material fell and struck him, killing him at the scene.
Authorities do not suspect foul play, with investigators treating the incident as a weather-related accident. Wind gusts in the area reportedly reached 32 miles per hour on Friday.
Following the incident, the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation expressed sympathy to Mateucci’s relatives and loved ones in a statement published on Facebook.
“The Foundation extends its deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of the individual who died Friday, October 16, following an accident at Taliesin West in Scottsdale, Arizona,” a spokesperson wrote on Facebook.
The organisation also confirmed that local authorities had been informed and were handling the investigation.
“The Scottsdale Police Department is aware of the incident, and no further details will be shared out of respect for privacy and to allow officials to complete their work,” the statement added. “The property is closed to the public until further notice.”
Taliesin West, established in 1937, served as Wright’s winter home and architectural workspace in the Arizona desert. The site, which has since become a historic landmark, now houses the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation.
Mateucci had led the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná since 2022, overseeing an institution with campuses in Curitiba, Londrina and Toledo, Brazil, according to Brazilian newspaper G1.
His academic background included a degree in Pedagogy and a doctorate in educational leadership from Fordham University.
The university announced his death in a statement shared alongside his photograph on Instagram, expressing grief over the loss of its rector.
“The University announces, with deep sorrow, the passing of the Magnificent Rector, Brother Rogério Renato Mateucci, which occurred on October 16, 2026, in Scottsdale, United States,” Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná wrote alongside a photo of Mateucci shared on Instagram.
The institution also announced temporary disruptions to academic and administrative activities as part of its mourning arrangements.
“As a sign of mourning, classes at the Curitiba, Londrina, and Toledo campuses are canceled on October 17th and 19th,” the statement continued. “On Monday (October 19th), administrative work will also be suspended.”
