Family to Protest After Influencer Accused in Fatal Hit-and-Run Allowed to Remain Free in Quito

Family and friends of Nelly A. plan to gather at the intersection of Gangotena and Francisco de Orellana avenues in northern Quito on July 21, 2026. The protest aims to demand justice and express outrage over the decision allowing Roberto S., an influencer accused of fatally striking Nelly A. in a traffic accident, to face legal proceedings while at liberty.

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The protest seeks to demand justice and express the disagreement of Nelly A.'s family with the fact that Roberto S., an influencer investigated as the alleged perpetrator of the hit-and-run, faces the criminal process at liberty under precautionary measures.

During the initial hearing, prosecutors requested measures other than pre-trial detention. Roberto S.'s defense presented documents like a lease agreement and tax declarations, which were deemed sufficient to establish his ties to the country and reduce the risk of flight. As part of these measures, he must report to authorities three times a week.

Legal experts note that pre-trial detention is an exceptional measure in Ecuador's penal system, intended not as punishment but to ensure a defendant's appearance in court. According to the Comprehensive Organic Penal Code, it is only imposed if prosecutors demonstrate that other measures, such as periodic reporting or travel bans, are inadequate to prevent flight or hinder the investigation.

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The defense of the accused presented documents to prove ties to the country. Among them are a lease agreement and tax declarations, considered sufficient to demonstrate that he would remain linked to the process.

These precautionary measures can be reviewed if new evidence emerges suggesting a flight risk or obstruction. For instance, if Roberto S. fails to report as required or attempts to leave the country, prosecutors could seek a hearing to revoke his current measures and request pre-trial detention.

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Pre-trial detention is the last option. For it to be imposed, the prosecution must justify that measures such as periodic reporting or prohibition of leaving the country are not sufficient.