Multiple Fatalities in Viña del Mar Incident: Navy Confirms Involvement of Service Member

Original article: Confirman que conductor responsable de atropello múltiple en Viña del Mar es miembro de la Armada: Seis muertos y varios heridos

Tragedy in Viña del Mar: Navy Confirms Off-Duty Member Responsible for Fatal Mass Collision

The Chilean Navy has confirmed that the driver responsible for the multiple pedestrian collision that occurred on Sunday, July 12, at the Caupolicán Fair in Viña del Mar is a member of its ranks who was off duty and driving a personal vehicle, as reported by G5 Noticias. The incident, which happened at around 8:30 AM, resulted in six fatalities and six injuries, including two infants.

In a statement, the Navy noted that «according to preliminary information available and due to causes under investigation, this tragic accident resulted in the death of several individuals and various degrees of injuries for others.» The Navy expressed its sorrow, stating: «We deeply lament the irreparable loss of human lives caused by this tragedy and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims», as reported by G5 Noticias.

Since the incident, the Navy has «provided all necessary cooperation to the Public Prosecutor’s Office and police forces to help clarify the circumstances surrounding the accident» and has initiated internal administrative procedures, according to the announcement.

See report from 24 Horas TVN

Identity of the Driver and Victims

The regional presidential delegate, Manuel Millones, confirmed that the driver is a Corporal of the Navy from the Marine Corps, stationed at Fort Aguayo. Millones stated that «according to the initial report made by the police, he was not under the influence of alcohol; he may have lost control due to the drizzle, which is part of the police investigation by the SIAT.»

The delegate also revealed that among the deceased victims is a Navy staff member who worked at the Naval Hospital. In discussions with the media, Millones detailed: «There is a person who is also a Navy employee who has passed away, working at the Naval Hospital.»

Authorities’ Reaction

The presidential delegate stated that the injured are «on the mend. The twins, who are infants, will likely remain hospitalized. Their mother, who also suffered a cervical injury, is in stable condition.» Millones urged authorities to enhance safety at the fair: «These tragedies should teach us a lesson, prompting municipal and Ministry of National Assets authorities to reinforce measures to prevent any kind of accident.»

The regional Secretary of Social Development, Nicolás Cerda, described the tragedy as one of «major significance» and announced psychosocial and financial support for the affected families.

The Municipality of Viña del Mar, through Mayor Macarena Ripamonti, as highlighted by PubliMetro, announced the filing of criminal charges against the responsible party and made surveillance camera footage available for the investigation. «We understand the immense pain and uncertainty you are experiencing, and we want to assure you that as a municipality, we will support you every step of the way,» stated the mayor.