The Death of Vito Rizzuto: Montreal's Teflon Don

Name: The Death of Vito Rizzuto: Montreal's Teflon Don
Start: 2013-12-23
Location: Unspecified

The Life and Legacy of Vito Rizzuto

Vito Rizzuto: Early Life

Vito Rizzuto, born in 1946 in Cattolica Eraclea, Sicily, immigrated to Canada with his family at the young age of seven. He grew up in Montreal, where he quickly became entrenched in the fabric of organized crime.

The Rise of Vito Rizzuto

Throughout the 1970s and 80s, Vito Rizzuto established himself as a pivotal figure in the Italian-Canadian mafia, specifically with the Rizzuto crime family. He capitalized on his connections in both Canada and the United States, which allowed him to expand the family's influence and operations significantly.

The Death of a Notorious Crime Figure

Vito Rizzuto Dies at 67

On December 23, 2013, Vito Rizzuto passed away from complications related to cancer, at the age of 67. His death was not just a loss for his family but marked the end of an era in Montreal’s organized crime landscape. Rizzuto was often referred to as Montreal's Teflon Don, a name that reflected his ability to avoid serious legal repercussions for years.

Impact of Rizzuto's Death

The passing of Vito Rizzuto triggered significant changes in the underworld. His leadership had held the Rizzuto crime family together, and following his death, the balance of power shifted, leading to a violent power struggle among various factions vying for control.

Fun Fact

Vito Rizzuto’s Connection to Popular Culture

Rizzuto's life and persona have inspired various portrayals in films and television shows dealing with mafia culture, showcasing the allure and danger of organized crime.