12-Year-Old Boy Killed in Brutal San Bernardo Carjacking
A 12-year-old boy died in San Bernardo after being dragged for approximately three kilometers during a carjacking, according to reports. The incident occurred early Tuesday after suspects stole a vehicle from a Shell gas station and later targeted a car carrying the child, his father, and his aunt.
The events began around 1:30 a.m. at a Shell service station on Eyzaguirre Street. Radio Bío Bío reported that approximately seven armed individuals arrived at the site to steal a vehicle. After intimidating the driver and taking the car, the group began a crime spree throughout the commune.
How did the carjacking lead to the child’s death?
The suspects intercepted a second vehicle at the intersection of the Ruta 5 Sur side road and General Urrutia. Inside the car were a father of Argentine nationality, his 12-year-old son, and the child’s aunt.
Armed with knives, the attackers forced the two adults to exit the vehicle. The child, however, could not release his seatbelt and remained trapped in the rear seats. The thieves drove away with the boy still attached to the car.
The child was dragged for roughly three kilometers until the vehicle reached Villa Portales, specifically at the intersection of Avenida Portales and Leonardo Da Vinci. Upon realizing what had happened, the suspects—who are reported to be minors—abandoned the red vehicle and fled. The boy died from the severity of his injuries.
Who is investigating the San Bernardo crime?
The OS9 unit of Carabineros is the specialized agency managing the investigation. Officers are currently searching for clues to identify and locate the perpetrators.
Fiscal Leonardo Tapia, the Chief of Criminal Analysis West, has assumed the legal case. Meanwhile, the Victims Unit of the Public Ministry has provided psychological support and containment for the child’s family since Tuesday morning.
What may happen next in the investigation?
Investigators could use the videos accessed by Radio Bío Bío to identify the seven suspects seen at the initial Shell station robbery. This footage may provide the primary leads needed to track the group’s movements.
Legal proceedings are likely to focus on the specific roles of each individual in the “tour delictual.” Depending on the evidence, the Public Ministry may pursue charges related to homicide and aggravated robbery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the sequence of crimes begin?
The crimes started at a Shell service station on Eyzaguirre Street around 1:30 a.m.
How far was the child dragged by the stolen vehicle?
The child was dragged for approximately three kilometers, ending at the intersection of Avenida Portales and Leonardo Da Vinci.
Who is the lead prosecutor on the case?
The case is being handled by Leonardo Tapia, the Chief of Criminal Analysis West.
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