29/06/2026 03:27 - Judiciales
An intense police operation has led to the arrest of the suspected driver responsible for the fatal hit-and-run that claimed the life of Emilio Juárez Villarruel, aged 44, on the streets of Bariloche during the early hours of June 28, 2026. The driver had fled the scene without assisting the victim.
The vehicle involved, a gray Ford Fiesta, was located hidden approximately 28 kilometers south of the city, along National Route 40, in a low-traffic area. The car was seized and will undergo mechanical and forensic examinations.
📍 Context: Bariloche (San Carlos de Bariloche) is a world-famous tourist destination in Argentine Patagonia, known for its stunning lakes, mountains, and chocolate shops. National Route 40 is one of Argentina's most iconic highways, stretching over 5,000 km along the Andes mountains.
The victim was found unconscious on the street at the intersection of Sarmiento and Vilcapugio (according to sources close to the case) or near Ruiz Moreno and Neuquén (according to the Public Prosecutor's Office), after being struck by a vehicle. Neighbors alerted emergency services, and he was rushed to Hospital Zonal Ramón Carrillo with severe multiple injuries.
Despite medical efforts, he passed away during Saturday morning. The autopsy performed by the Forensic Investigation Unit confirmed that the death resulted from being hit by a vehicle.
The investigation was led by Chief Prosecutor Betiana Cendón and Prosecutor Marcos Sosa Lukman, with participation from multiple departments:
The analysis of public and private security cameras, combined with witness statements, allowed investigators to reconstruct the vehicle's route and identify the alleged suspect. The suspect is being assisted by the Public Defense Office, and a formal charges hearing will take place in the coming hours.
The wake was held on June 28, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Sala Nahuel, located at Vilcapugio and Elordi. His remains were transferred to Buenos Aires Province for final burial alongside his family. His brother Gabi supported the family throughout the arrangements.
Sources: Government of Río Negro | AN Bariloche | Bache3000
Alfredo S. Quiroga
