Another civilian dies on the Pan-American Highway trying to evade armed group's roadblock: an engineer who fell into an abyss

Engineer James Norbey Hurtado Ruiz became the latest victim on the perilous Pan-American Highway when he died after his car plunged into an abyss. The tragic incident occurred early on July 3 as Ruiz attempted to evade an illegal checkpoint manned by an armed group. He was traveling back to Popayán, the capital of Cauca, after visiting Cali in the neighboring Valle del Cauca department for work commitments.

According to acquaintances, Ruiz likely feared for his life when he encountered the roadblock. In his attempt to escape, he reportedly lost control of his vehicle, causing it to veer off the road and fall into a deep ravine. Videos from the scene show the car completely destroyed, with parts scattered across the slope and the wreckage lying far below.

The 385-kilometer Pan-American Highway, which connects southwestern Colombia with the departments of Valle, Cauca, and Nariño, has become a notorious route, particularly at night. Armed groups frequently set up illegal checkpoints, leading to kidnappings and vehicle thefts. The death of Ruiz highlights the persistent dangers faced by travelers on this vital corridor.

Residents and local authorities, including Cauca's governor Octavio Guzmán, have repeatedly called for a more permanent security presence from law enforcement. The fear is palpable even during daylight hours, but the risks escalate dramatically after sunset, turning the journey into a terrifying experience for those traveling between southern Valle and Nariño.