Barbie Designer Dies in Accident After an Elderly Driver Goes the Wrong Way

Kapanlagi.com - The world of Barbie is mourning the loss of two figures who have been an important part of the history of the iconic doll. Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi, a couple and renowned designers from Italy, tragically died in an accident on Sunday, July 27, 2025.

They both passed away after a car driven by an elderly man fatally went the wrong way on the A4 highway, the Turin-Milan route in Italy. This unfortunate event not only claimed their lives but also took the lives of two others.

Deep condolences were expressed by Barbie through social media. In their official statement, Barbie remembered them as passionate creators who made extraordinary contributions to the world of dolls and their collectors. See the complete explanation below.

1. Chronology of the Tragic Accident on the Italian Highway

Barbie Designer Dies in Accident (credit: instagram/barbie)

This fatal accident occurred in the Lombardy region, specifically near the Marcallo-Mesero toll gate, on the A4 highway connecting Turin and Milan. An 82-year-old man mistakenly drove more than six kilometers in the wrong lane.

The unavoidable head-on collision resulted in the total destruction of two vehicles and immediately killed most of the passengers involved. Local police have not yet made an official comment, but media reports reveal that the road conditions at the time of the incident were normal.

2. List of Victims: Four Dead, One Injured

The accident claimed the lives of Mario Paglino (52), Gianni Grossi (55), and a banker named Amodio Valerio Giurni (37). Giurni was traveling with his wife, Silvia Moramarco (36), who sustained serious injuries.

Silvia is currently receiving intensive care at Niguarda Hospital, Milan. Meanwhile, the elderly driver who caused the accident, Egidio Ceriano, also died at the scene due to the severe impact.

3. The Contributions of Mario and Gianni in the World of Barbie

Barbie Designer Dies in Accident (credit: instagram/magia2000)

Mario and Gianni are widely known through their company, Magnia2000, which was established in 1999. This company focuses on creating special edition Barbie dolls, and one of their works was even auctioned for $15,000 for charity.

Both are also the founders of the Italian Doll Convention, the largest event for fashion doll enthusiasts in Europe. They also served as consultants for the “Barbie The Icon” exhibition in Milan and Rome, showcasing part of their personal collection.

4. Official Statement from Barbie

Through the official Barbie account, Mattel expressed deep sorrow over the loss of these two talented artists. The statement reads:

“The Barbie team is heartbroken by the loss of Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi, two treasured creators and Mattel collaborators who brought joy and artistry to the world of Barbie as Magnia2000.”

Barbie also remembers them as energetic and creative individuals who always added color to every doll community event. In addition to creating designs, they often donated their works for auction in charitable activities.

5. Legacy Left for the Global Community

Barbie Designer Dies in Accident (credit: instagram/magia2000)

Mario and Gianni are known not only for their artistic skills but also for their dedication to the collector community worldwide. They regularly create exclusive dolls to support social activities.

Their presence has culturally and emotionally enriched the world of Barbie. Now, both are remembered as icons who have shaped the identity of modern Barbie and left an irreplaceable legacy.

6. Questions About the Barbie Designer Accident

Q: Who are Mario Paglino and Gianni Grossi?
A: They are Italian Barbie designers and collectors who founded the company Magnia2000 and are active in the global fashion doll community.

Q: What was the main cause of the accident?
A: The accident was caused by an 82-year-old man driving in the wrong lane for over six kilometers.

Q: Were there any survivors from the accident?
A: Yes, Silvia Moramarco survived and is now in intensive care after sustaining serious injuries in the incident.

Q: What is Mario and Gianni's biggest contribution to the world of Barbie?
A: They created exclusive dolls for charity events, established the Italian Doll Convention, and served as consultants for official Barbie exhibitions.

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