Fatal hit-and-run incidents in Argentina

Separate fatal hit-and-run incidents have drawn legal and public attention in Argentina.

In Neuquén, an investigation is underway following the death of 70-year-old Armando Nicolás Quirulef. Security footage shows a speeding motorcycle striking Quirulef as he attempted to cross a street in the Islas Malvinas neighborhood. The victim's family has alleged that the motorcyclist fled the scene and that others present attempted to interfere with the aftermath. Prosecutor Guadalupe Inaudi is leading the homicide investigation.

In La Plata, the oral trial for Felicitas Alvite, nicknamed “La Toretto,” has commenced following the April 2024 death of motorcyclist Walter Armand. Alvite is accused of simple homicide with eventual intent, a charge that carries a potential prison sentence of 8 to 25 years. Prosecutors allege she was driving at high speeds and ran multiple red lights while racing with her friend, Valentina Velázquez. Velázquez also faces charges for reckless speed testing.

The trial, scheduled to run until November 6 at Criminal Court No. 2, involves approximately 100 witnesses. Prosecutors claim the vehicles traveled roughly 3,000 meters in just over two minutes at an average speed of 83 kilometers per hour, running six red lights before the collision. During the initial hearing, Alvite expressed remorse to the victim's family, stating she carries the weight of having left a family broken. She also addressed her public persona, stating, “I would be incapable of harming someone,” though her full testimony was suspended due to emotional distress. The defense argues the incident should be classified as involuntary manslaughter, claiming Alvite acted with imprudence but without the intention of causing a fatal outcome. The victim's brother, Milton Armand, has expressed a desire for justice while criticizing legal benefits previously granted to the accused, such as house arrest without electronic monitoring.