Ex-Vice Governor Denies Charges in Fatal Crash Trial

Oscar González, a former vice governor and prominent Peronist politician in Córdoba, has begun facing trial for a tragic road accident in October 2022 that resulted in the death of a woman and left two teenage girls with severe, life-altering injuries. The incident occurred on the Camino de las Altas Cumbres when González, driving a BMW X1, allegedly crossed into the oncoming lane, colliding head-on with a Renault Sandero.

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I will refrain from testifying and I deny the facts imputed to me.

González, who also served as a national official, has pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated negligent homicide and aggravated negligent injuries, citing reckless driving. In the initial court hearing, he declared, "I will refrain from testifying and I deny the facts imputed to me." The court also heard emotional testimony from the two surviving teenagers, one of whom is the daughter of the deceased victim, Alejandra Bengoa, 56.

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The prosecutor's office ignored the traffic law, which has two important points.

The defense team, led by Miguel Ortiz Pellegrini, has filed a motion to nullify the proceedings, challenging the investigation conducted by prosecutor Analía Gallaratto. They argue that crucial evidence is missing and that certain forensic tests were omitted. The defense also contends that Bengoa was driving without a valid license since 2019 and that she had crossed double yellow lines while attempting to overtake a truck, contributing to the accident.

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There is no doubt that she was disqualified [from driving].

However, the prosecution maintains that González's vehicle invaded the opposite lane in a prohibited passing zone with poor visibility and sharp curves. The accident left Bengoa dead at the scene, her daughter Alexa Medina paralyzed, and her friend Marina Szulewicz with serious injuries. The trial, held under heightened security in Villa Dolores, has seen palpable tension, particularly when Alexa faced González in the courtroom.

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She committed two infractions: she lacked a license and to overtake the truck she crossed the yellow lines.