Fatal Route 40 Crashes: One Dead in Lake Plunge, Another Critical After Rollover

The scenic but treacherous Route 40 in Argentina's Patagonia region became the scene of two serious accidents over the long weekend, resulting in one fatality and another driver in critical condition. Near Villa La Angostura, a Toyota Yaris veered off the road on the Seven Lakes route, rolling multiple times before coming to rest. The 61-year-old driver sustained severe injuries and is in intensive care, while his two companions suffered minor injuries. Preliminary investigations suggest a miscalculation on the wet road, not external factors, caused the crash.

Tragedy struck again near San Martín de los Andes when a Volkswagen Suran skidded off Route 40 and plunged approximately 90 meters into Lake Lácar. A complex rescue operation involving firefighters, naval prefecture, and emergency medical services recovered the body of the sole occupant, 34-year-old Cristian Coliluan. Authorities are exploring the possibility that this incident was intentional, as Coliluan's ex-partner had reported him missing after a heated argument hours earlier.

In light of these incidents and prevailing adverse weather conditions, including snow and rain alerts, National Road Administration urges extreme caution for travelers in the cordillera region. The unstable climate and icy road surfaces pose significant risks.