PDI investigates body found in Copiapó river: victim reportedly dragged in frontal system

The police investigation into the discovery of a body in the Copiapó River has begun, with authorities considering drowning as a possible cause of death. The incident occurred in the Pabellón Bajo area of Tierra Amarilla commune, in the Atacama Region. According to preliminary reports, the victim was likely dragged by the river current during increased flow caused by a weather front. Officers from the homicide unit of the Public Prosecutor’s Office (PDI) have joined forensic experts from the Regional Forensic Laboratory (Lacrim) in examining the scene. The initial findings suggest no third parties were involved in the incident, pointing toward accidental drowning as a potential cause of death. A post-mortem examination will be required to confirm this hypothesis. Comisario Andrés Bugueño of the Copiapó Homicide Unit explained that the victim appears to have been a worker on an agricultural property. He stated that the individual attempted to cross the river late at night, possibly due to unknown reasons, and was subsequently swept away by the powerful currents. The area had recently experienced heavy rainfall, contributing to the river's heightened flow. The body was discovered in the early hours of the morning. Investigations are ongoing, and the identity of the deceased remains unidentified. Police officials emphasized that the case is still under active review, with further steps being taken to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the death. The Attorney General’s office in the Atacama region confirmed that all its functions remain operational within the Copiapó province. Officials noted that the death of an adult male in Tierra Amarilla has prompted the involvement of specialized units. A Bolivian national was identified among the victims, prompting the dispatch of the homicide unit and forensic teams from the PDI, along with representatives from the Medical Legal Service (SML). Fiscal Adjunto Guillermo Zárate Chacana announced that the case will be transferred to the Victim and Witness Assistance Unit of the regional prosecutor’s office for further handling. This step ensures that appropriate procedures are followed in addressing the incident and supporting any affected individuals. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, with efforts focused on gathering more information and confirming the cause of death. The ongoing investigation highlights the challenges posed by environmental conditions and the need for continued vigilance in such areas. Further updates are expected as the inquiry progresses.