Selfie Culture Gone Wrong: Screaming U.S. Tourist Impaled on Colosseum Fence in Grisly Rome Incident

A 47-year-old American tourist reportedly impaled himself on a metal fence at the Colosseum in Rome after attempting to scale it — possibly for a selfie — in what quickly turned into a painful spectacle for horrified bystanders.

The man, a U.S. citizen based in Taiwan, was left literally hanging for more than 20 minutes, screaming in agony until he passed out and dangled limp from the ancient railing like a cautionary tale in human form. Italian newspaper Il Messaggero broke the story, noting the tourist pierced his spine and required 80 stitches after Friday’s harrowing incident.

Tourists on the scene called for help immediately, but it took paramedics a full 20+ minutes to carefully remove the man from the fence. He was rushed to San Giovanni Hospital in “code red” condition and later stabilized — but not before giving onlookers a scene they won’t forget anytime soon.

While the exact reason for the fence-climbing stunt remains unconfirmed, investigators suspect he was trying to snag the perfect angle or view — likely for a selfie or dramatic photo. Because what’s a trip to Rome without endangering your life for likes?

This isn’t the first time American tourists have shown out at the Colosseum. In 2021, two others were fined nearly $900 after sneaking into the landmark at night to drink beer. Ancient ruins, modern recklessness.

As of Sunday, Italian Carabinieri police questioned the man and his companions. His friends, apparently just as confused, weren’t able to explain what motivated the move. No word yet on charges — but the internet has plenty of judgment.

Social media reactions were swift:

“Bro tried to become a martyr for Instagram clout.” – @RomanHolidayFiasco
“Natural selection doing its thing.” – @HistoryHasEyes
“He wanted a view. Now he’s got a room. In the hospital.” – @RuinsReckless

While some online were sympathetic, others called it out for what it was: reckless, entitled tourism in a city already battling overtourism and worn-down historic sites.

Let this be a lesson: some fences are there for a reason, and your spinal cord is not worth 12 likes and a fire emoji.