A respected University of Concepción professor is in critical condition following a pedestrian accident Wednesday afternoon in Concepción. Paulina Astroza is currently hospitalized in the intensive care unit of the Regional Hospital of Concepción.
The incident occurred at the intersection of Rengo and Chacabuco streets as Astroza was leaving a hair salon. The accident underscores the vulnerability of pedestrians in busy urban areas.
According to information from Radio Bío Bío, the vehicle involved was driven by a doctor. Astroza was exiting the “Alfredo” hair salon when she was struck. The academic’s injuries are considered serious.
Alfredo Salgado, the salon owner, recounted the events, stating, “I spoke with him and when he saw nothing was coming on Rengo, he pulled out. At that moment, it seems Paulina lost her balance and fell.”
First aid was administered by staff from a nearby mental health clinic, with the driver of the vehicle remaining at the scene to assist.
Volunteers from the seventh fire company arrived and requested an ambulance to transport Astroza to the hospital.
Hospital Director Claudio Baeza stated that Astroza’s condition is serious. She sustained significant injuries, including a chest trauma, fractured ribs, a pulmonary contusion, a fractured scapula, and abdominal trauma, according to Baeza.
Hospital officials confirmed that while Astroza is not currently in life-threatening danger, her condition remains critical and she is being treated in the ICU.
