Neuquén police charged with homicide after man dies in hospital

Argentine authorities have charged several police officers in connection with the death of 47-year-old José Galeano, which occurred in November at the Hospital Horacio Heller in Neuquén. Galeano, a Paraguayan national, had entered the hospital emergency room in a state of agitation and requesting help after consuming cocaine, while carrying a knife.

Following a struggle to disarm him, Galeano died from injuries sustained during the physical restraint. An autopsy revealed fatal injuries, including bilateral rib fractures, severe pulmonary edema, and a serious closed thoracic trauma that caused a pneumothorax. Forensic reports indicated that while some injuries might be linked to resuscitation efforts, others were consistent with physical reduction maneuvers.

Judge Luciano Hermosilla has validated charges brought by prosecutor Lorena Juárez. The officers involved, including Marcelo Orellana, Gino Facci, Tomás Ontiveros, and Milton Torrico, face charges of simple homicide with eventual intent (dolo eventual) and excess in the fulfillment of duty. Security camera footage and witness testimony are central to the prosecution's case.