The footage of the episode has circulated online and is now being examined by authorities as the local community awaits further developments.
The business owner, Andrea Caroli, is originally from Rome and moved to Australia in 2009.
Caroli has long worked as a pizzaiolo, and after opening Ciccio Pizza in Pascoe Vale in 2020, recently launched Daje Pizza in Brunswick, specialising in thin, hand-stretched Roman-style pizza.
According to Caroli, tensions had already emerged in the weeks leading up to the opening. “People came into my shop while we were doing renovations,” he said, describing what he characterised as aggressive and threatening behaviour. He stated that these incidents had been reported to authorities.
The situation escalated on the evening of Friday March 13, at around 10 p.m. as the restaurant was closing.
According to the owner, a group entered the premises, leading to a physical altercation. Customers and family members were reportedly present at the time.
“We were inside cleaning when they forced their way in,” Caroli said.
Several people were allegedly injured, with at least one person taken to hospital. Police attended the scene, gathered statements and launched an investigation.
No further official details have been released and the matter remains ongoing.
Despite the incident, the restaurant has since reopened, supported by a strong response from customers.
“The community has really stood by me,” Caroli said. “The support has been incredible.”
While the situation remains unresolved, he says he intends to move forward. “It’s difficult, but I’ll keep going, doing what I’ve always done—my job.”
