Driver Involved in Caupicho Accident Released on Bail

A judge in Quito has released the bus driver accused in a fatal traffic accident in Caupicho, granting him substitute measures instead of pretrial detention. The driver faces charges of vehicular manslaughter and causing injuries following the incident on Friday, June 20, 2026.

The accident claimed the life of a four-month-old baby and left fifteen people injured. The bus reportedly lost its lane, struck a pole, and overturned. Emergency services responded after an alert to ECU 9-1-1, and injured individuals were transported to local hospitals by residents.

The driver, identified as Lenin Paúl F. A., was apprehended at the scene. During the initial hearing, prosecutors presented evidence including witness statements, autopsy reports, and technical assessments of the vehicle and accident scene. The investigation suggests the probable cause was the driver's lack of attention to road design, leading to the loss of control.

The judge ordered periodic check-ins for the accused and prohibited him from leaving the country. The case will proceed under ordinary procedure, with a 30-day period set for the fiscal investigation.