What truly unfolded in the early hours along Santiago’s Costanera Norte?
Eyewitnesses describe seeing a car seemingly fall into the Mapocho River in slow motion—but was this a simple accident, or the result of reckless behavior? Authorities are investigating, while social media is ablaze with criticism, as emerging details suggest the situation could have been far deadlier.
Shocking Accident: Vehicle Crashes into Mapocho River After Reckless Driving
Santiago, Chile – A quiet early Sunday morning quickly turned into a near-disaster when a car veered off the road and plunged into the Mapocho River. Miraculously, the driver survived and was later found to be under the influence of alcohol. The incident occurred around 2:30 a.m.
near the intersection of Avenida Costanera Norte and Puente Purísima, when a private vehicle traveling at high speed lost control, broke through the guardrail, and fell approximately six meters into the river below. Witnesses immediately called emergency services. “It looked like something out of a movie. The car was swerving, then suddenly it went straight into the river. We didn’t think anyone could survive,” recalled one night-shift worker.
Driver Survives, Alcohol Detected
Carabineros reported that the 28-year-old driver, identified as Matías C., managed to exit the vehicle on his own despite the crash. He sustained minor injuries but was conscious when rescued on the riverbank and was transported to the University of Chile Clinical Hospital for treatment. A breathalyzer test later revealed a blood alcohol level of 1.3 grams per liter, confirming that he was driving while intoxicated.
The accident sparked immediate outrage online. Social media users wrote, “He could have taken someone else’s life,” and “This is not an accident—pure negligence.” Fortunately, no other vehicles or pedestrians were harmed, likely due to the early hour. Authorities noted that this section of the Costanera Norte is notorious for speeding. Commander Pablo Álvarez of Carabineros emphasized, “We have repeatedly warned drivers about the risks, yet some continue to ignore the dangers of drunk driving.”
The damaged car was later removed from the river, with authorities assessing any damage to the bridge’s railing and nearby infrastructure.
Vehicle Recovered, Charges Filed, Authorities Issue Warning
The extraction of the heavily damaged vehicle required specialized equipment and several hours of work. The crash also compromised the bridge’s safety railing, which municipal crews are now inspecting for repairs.
Matías C. was charged with drunk driving and damaging public property. A court ordered overnight house arrest, a temporary suspension of his license, and a monthly check-in as the investigation continues. Prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges if evidence indicates prior reckless behavior.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing risks of drunk driving in Chile, one of the leading causes of traffic fatalities. Authorities issued a clear warning: “There is no excuse. Drinking and driving can cost your life—or the lives of others.”
Conclusion
The early-morning crash into the Mapocho River offers a chilling example of the dangers posed by driving under the influence. While the driver survived, the event could have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life. Beyond legal consequences and property damage, the incident reignites urgent discussions about road safety, personal responsibility, and the potentially devastating outcomes of reckless behavior. It is a stark lesson: moments of carelessness can