# Nelson Tapia traffic accident and resignation

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/nelson-tapia-traffic-accident-and-resignation
> Updated: 2026-08-18T17:29:08.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

On August 7, 2026, former Chilean national team goalkeeper and Imperial Unido technical director Nelson Tapia was involved in a serious traffic accident in the Maule Region. Tapia lost control of his vehicle on Route 5 South, causing it to hit barriers and overturn. Carabineros reported that a breathalyzer test at the scene showed Tapia had 1.04 grams of alcohol per liter of blood.

While initially reported as stable and out of vital danger at Linares Hospital, Tapia later resurfaced publicly following his recovery. Although his club initially expressed support for his continued role, Tapia subsequently resigned from his position as technical director of Imperial Unido, citing personal reasons. He later shared a social media message reflecting on life and expressing gratitude for the support received during his recovery.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-18: Nelson Tapia resurfaces after serious car accident in Chile

Former Chilean goalkeeper Nelson Tapia has resurfaced after a serious car accident involving driving under the influence, subsequently resigning from his coaching role at Imperial Unido.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nelson-tapia-resurfaces-after-serious-car-accident-in-chile

### 2026-08-07: Nelson Tapia involved in serious traffic accident in Chile

Former Chilean goalkeeper Nelson Tapia suffered serious injuries after a vehicle rollover on Route 5 South while driving under the influence of alcohol.

12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/former-chile-goalkeeper-nelson-tapia-injured-in-dui-crash-on-ruta-5-sur

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Cite as: Nelson Tapia traffic accident and resignation. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/nelson-tapia-traffic-accident-and-resignation