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Benatti: Wife of ex-rugby player reportedly kills couple's children

The wife of ex-Italy player Andrea Benatti is believed to have murdered their two children, aged two and five, before attempting suicide
Ryder Cup 2018 final day: Europe vs USA, Sunday singles

El jugador italiano Andrea Benatti, durante un partido con su selección.
Dean PurcellGetty Images

Italian rugby is in a state of shock after the wife of former international player Andrea Benatti reportedly murdered the couple's two children on Thursday before attempting to commit suicide.

Son, five, and daughter, two, left dead

According to local reports, Antonella Barbieri first killed their two-year-old daughter by smothering her with a pillow, then stabbed their son, five, to death.

Benatti's wife in hospital after attempting suicide

Barbieri was later discovered with a knife in her abdomen, having apparently tried to take her own life, and is now in hospital in Reggio Emilia, northern Italy, with her condition said to be serious but not life-threatening.

Benatti, who retired from professional rugby in 2011 having won five caps for Italy, was out at work when the events took place, Italian media say.