The couple exited the Renaissance Mall shortly before midnight and attempted to cross L.G. Smith Boulevard near the descending section of the Renaissance bridge. The location does not have a pedestrian crosswalk, although one is located approximately 38 meters further down the road.
As the couple crossed the street, a black SUV traveling at high speed struck both pedestrians. Due to the force of the impact, the female victim was thrown approximately 20 meters forward, landing face-down near Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant.
The male victim was carried on the vehicle for an estimated 61 to 75 meters, either on the hood or windshield, before being thrown onto the roadway near the former Customs Department building.
Police received the first emergency call at 11:58 p.m., reporting a severe accident with two pedestrians down near the casino area. Witnesses reported that the SUV fled the scene, turning the case into a hit-and-run.
Emergency responders and ambulances arrived quickly, but paramedics were unable to save either victim due to the severity of their injuries. A forensic doctor later officially pronounced both deceased.
The victims were identified as:
- Carlos David Vialez Valerio (53), born October 19, 1971, originally from the Dominican Republic, resident of Aruba
- Jocely Paulina Vasquez Gonzalez (64), born July 9, 1960, originally from the Dominican Republic, resident of Aruba
They are officially recorded as Traffic Fatalities #1 and #2 of 2026.
Police closed the road and deployed BFTO forensic investigators, traffic specialists, and Victim Support Services. Due to the public location and severity of injuries, the victims were respectfully covered while investigations continued.
Through witness statements and high-definition security camera footage, authorities were able to identify the vehicle as a black Jeep Grand Cherokee. The SUV was located just hours later at a residence in the Bushiri–Pos Abao area, showing extensive front-end damage, including:
- Destroyed front bumper
- Damaged grille
- Severely bent hood
- Broken windshield
- Engine still warm upon discovery
The female driver was found at the residence and arrested immediately. Authorities emphasized that continuing to drive with such extensive damage shows a deliberate attempt to flee responsibility.
Police spokesperson Liliana Rasmijn described the incident as deeply tragic, stating:
“Drivers must stop and remain at the scene. These were human beings with families. Respect for traffic rules saves lives.”
The case remains under full investigation, with forensic analysis ongoing.
The Dominican community in Aruba has expressed deep sorrow, and the Juan Pablo Duarte Dominican-Aruban Foundation has extended condolences to the families.
DIARIO, together with the Aruba Police Force, also extends heartfelt condolences to all loved ones affected by this devastating loss.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/policial/hit-run-cruel-a-cobra-bida-di-pareha-cu-a-caba-di-sali-di-casino
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