Near Tragedy in Cordón: Homeless Individuals Escape Being Run Over After Drunk Driver's Crash

A shocking incident in the Cordón neighborhood of Montevideo has highlighted the precariousness of life for those experiencing homelessness, as three individuals sleeping on the sidewalk narrowly avoided tragedy early Sunday morning.

The collision, which occurred at the intersection of Mercedes and Gaboto, involved a car traveling against traffic that slammed into a second vehicle. The impact sent the second vehicle careening out of control, up onto the sidewalk, and directly towards the sleeping individuals. Miraculously, they escaped unharmed, but the close call serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by vulnerable populations.

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Three people who were spending the night on the sidewalk managed to get out unharmed after a strong traffic accident registered early this Sunday morning in the Cordón neighborhood.

Adding to the gravity of the situation, police confirmed that one of the drivers tested positive for alcohol, indicating that impaired driving was a significant factor in the crash. This driver has been detained and will face charges. The event has understandably caused concern among local residents and business owners, with footage circulating that clearly shows the terrifying proximity of the out-of-control vehicle to the sleeping men.

While international news might report this as a simple traffic accident, for Uruguay, it underscores a persistent social issue. El País, as a leading Uruguayan publication, frames this not just as a story of reckless driving but as a critical incident that intersects with the ongoing challenges of homelessness and public safety. The fact that the victims were sleeping on the street, a consequence of broader societal issues, adds a layer of urgency to the discussion about protecting vulnerable citizens, especially in the context of extreme weather alerts that have recently been issued for the country.

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One of the drivers involved tested positive for alcohol in his blood and was detained pending the ruling of the Minor Offenses Court.