A Tragic Sunday on Route 60
On Sunday, August 16, 2026, at approximately 8:30 PM, a Peugeot 504 and a Volkswagen T-Cross collided head-on on Provincial Route 60, near Piperbo Lane in the town of Fray Luis Beltrán, Maipú department, in the province of Mendoza, Argentina. The impact was so severe that it left three dead and five injured, some in critical condition.
According to preliminary investigations, the T-Cross was traveling west and, during a passing maneuver, collided with the Peugeot 504, which was entering the road from a public lane and turning east. The exact circumstances are still under forensic analysis.
The First Victim: A Well-Known Referee
The driver of the Peugeot was identified as Oscar Aníbal Fernández Mercau, 48 years old, known in the amateur football community of Mendoza by the nickname “Chacha”. He was originally from Tres Porteñas, in the San Martín department, and worked as a referee in tournaments in the eastern zone of Maipú and nearby towns. In fact, he had officiated a match just hours before the accident.
Fernández Mercau was rushed to the Central Hospital in an ambulance from the Coordinated Emergency Service (SEC), but died during transport due to the severity of his injuries. His death caused deep shock in the local football community.
The Masó Tillar Sisters: Two Young Lives Cut Short
The other two victims were Juana Masó Tillar, 21 years old, and Rosario Masó Tillar, 19 years old, both passengers in the T-Cross. The young women, residents of Chacras de Coria, Luján de Cuyo, were taken in critical condition to the Central Hospital of Mendoza.
Juana was studying Industrial Engineering at the University of Mendoza, while Rosario was in the pre-med program. On Monday, August 17, at 5:44 PM, Juana's death was confirmed due to cardiorespiratory arrest. Hours later, around 8:00 PM, it was reported that Rosario had suffered brain death, confirming her passing. Both had undergone surgery but could not survive.
The Injured and the Discovery of a Firearm
Three other people were traveling in the Volkswagen T-Cross, all injured:
- Martín Omar Tillar (52), the driver, suffered multiple trauma and remains in serious condition at the Lagomaggiore Hospital.
- Florencia Bettalemmi (42), Tillar's partner, diagnosed with severe head trauma and loss of consciousness, admitted to the intensive care unit at El Carmen Hospital.
- Ariadna Tillar (54), Martín's sister, with fractures of the tibia and fibula and a fractured lower jaw, hospitalized at Perrupato Hospital.
During subsequent police procedures, a Bersa Thunder .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol was found inside the Peugeot 504. It was seized and placed at the disposal of the justice system for forensic examination.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation is being led by the Fiscal Office of Maipú, with the intervention of Traffic Prosecutor Mariana Gutiérrez. Results of the forensic tests conducted at the scene and new witness statements are expected to determine the exact mechanics of the accident and any responsibilities.
The rescue operation involved officers from Vial Police, Precinct 61, Municipal Traffic, Volunteer Firefighters, the SEC, and Scientific Police. One of the young women was transported by the Halcón 3 medical helicopter.
The community of Maipú and the amateur football world are mourning this triple tragedy that has devastated several families.