A tragic collision on Highway 19 close to Santo Tomé has claimed the life of an 18‑year‑old driver and left two others in serious condition. The incident, which took place overnight, has reignited concerns about road safety on one of the region’s busiest corridors.
Accident details
At about 03:45 local time on 06 September 2025, a vehicle traveling westbound on Route 19 collided head‑on with a heavy truck. The impact was severe enough to rupture the front of the car, causing the young driver to be ejected from the vehicle. Emergency services arrived within minutes, providing first aid to the injured passengers before evacuating them to a nearby clinic.
Impact on local community
Residents of Santo Tomé described the scene as chaotic, with emergency lights flashing against the night sky. The area, which is a frequent junction for commuters traveling to Rosario and Santa Fe, saw traffic temporarily stalled as authorities secured the site.
Safety concerns on Ruta 19
The incident adds to a disturbing trend of fatal crashes along the 19th corridor. Local authorities have called for stricter enforcement of speed limits, enhanced lighting in blind spots, and increased visibility of signage. The provincial Ministry of Transport plans to deploy additional patrol vehicles in the coming weeks.
Context of other fatal accidents
Earlier this year, a similar collision near Colonia San José on the same highway resulted in the death of a 25‑year‑old driver and injuries to both the truck operator and a passenger in a pickup truck. The recurrence of such accidents has prompted state police to launch an investigation into possible road design flaws.
Measures and statements
The mayor of Santo Tomé expressed deep sorrow, calling the tragedy a reminder of the urgency to invest in safer road infrastructure. Testimonies from witnesses suggest that the truck may have stalled on the median before the collision, a point that investigators are examining. Meanwhile, a local rugby club announced a fundraiser to honor the memory of the deceased, who was an active player in the region’s premier league.