A tragic traffic collision on National Route 20 on Saturday evening resulted in the deaths of three people, including a child. Authorities are investigating a failed passing maneuver as a key factor in the accident.
The crash occurred around 7:30 p.m., approximately 500 meters east of Caico Street. According to a preliminary report from the Special Crimes Unit (UFI), a Renault Logan traveling eastbound attempted to pass a truck, inadvertently entering the opposite lane.
At that moment, an Audi TT traveling westbound was struck head-on. The impact was so severe that the three occupants of the Renault Logan – a man, a woman, and a minor – were killed instantly. Their identities were not immediately released pending notification of next of kin.
Risky Maneuver Believed to be Cause of Crash
Initial findings suggest the collision began with a risky passing attempt in an area where such maneuvers are particularly dangerous. As the Logan’s driver attempted to overtake the truck, they entered the opposing lane just as the Audi TT approached.
Head-on collisions are among the most lethal types of traffic accidents due to the combined speeds of the vehicles involved. This likely contributed to the force of the impact and the immediate fatalities for those in the vehicle that initiated the passing maneuver.
Judicial Investigation and Forensic Analysis
Officers from the 31st Police Station, along with forensic experts and emergency personnel, responded to the scene. The investigation has been turned over to the Special Crimes Unit, with the involvement of coordinating prosecutor Roberto Ginsberg, prosecutor Francisco Pizarro, and assistant prosecutor Pablo Orellano.
Forensic analysis will focus on determining the precise dynamics of the crash, including vehicle speeds, visibility conditions, and road signage. However, the primary hypothesis centers on the passing maneuver as the triggering factor. The case highlights the dangers of unsafe passing on two-lane highways.
