Tragedy Strikes the Family of Gremio Coach Mano Menezes
What began as a routine Friday afternoon in Santana do Livramento quickly turned into a nightmare that shook not only a city but the entire Brazilian football community. A highway accident on BR-293 claimed the lives of young lives and left a trail of grief that extends far beyond the immediate victims.
Last Friday, the family of Gremio head coach Mano Menezes faced an unimaginable loss. Two of his grandchildren, 16-year-old Maria Sophia Dumoncel and 9-year-old Arthur Dumoncel, died in a violent collision. A 42-year-old man also perished at the scene, and another man, initially rescued alive, later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.
The Federal Highway Police (PRF) described the impact as catastrophic. Two other victims—a 29-year-old driver and a 23-year-old passenger from Dom Pedrito—remain hospitalized in serious condition, with doctors working to stabilize them. The local community has been left in shock, rallying together in grief and solidarity.
In response, Gremio released an official statement expressing deep condolences to Mano Menezes, his wife Maria Ines, daughter Camilla Menezes, son-in-law Álvaro Dumoncel, and the children’s mother, Mirela Gomez da Costa.
Funeral arrangements have been shared by Mano’s daughter, Camilla, on social media: the wake for Maria Sophia and Arthur will be held at the Dom Pedrito Municipal Chapel, with burial scheduled for Sunday, August 18, at Santa Rita Cemetery in Santa Maria.
A Football Community United in Grief
In a rare moment of solidarity, fans from across the Brazilian football spectrum put aside rivalries to send messages of support. Social media posts flooded with compassion, showing that, in times of tragedy, humanity outweighs competition.
Adjustments on the Field
Gremio will temporarily adapt to the situation. Mano Menezes has been released from his coaching duties to be with his family. Assistant coach Sidnei Lobo will lead the team in the upcoming match against São Paulo, with assistant Freitas joining the technical committee to help maintain stability during this difficult period.
Reflection
The accident in Santana do Livramento is a heart-wrenching reminder of life’s fragility. For the Menezes family, losing two young grandchildren is an unimaginable sorrow. For the football world, it is a moment to pause and remember what truly matters: family, compassion, and solidarity.
In times of loss, rivalries fade, victories lose their shine, and what remains is the enduring value of love and human connection. This tragedy reminds us all to cherish every moment with those we hold dear.