16/07/2026 09:04 - Sociales
National Route 35, located in the southern part of the central province of Córdoba, was the scene of a tragic multiple-vehicle crash on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, around 1:00 PM. At kilometer 705, near the La Ensenada area, on the bridge over the Corralito stream, a couple from Villa La Angostura lost their lives following a violent impact involving five vehicles.
According to reports from one of the truck drivers involved, the driver of the car carrying the couple allegedly attempted an overtaking maneuver on the bridge, which led to the massive collision. The vehicles involved were a Toyota Corolla Cross car, a Ford Ranger pickup truck, and three heavy trucks: a Mercedes Benz 1134, a Volkswagen 19-320, and a Mercedes Benz 710 transporting water and soda.
As a result of the strong impact, the two people in the smaller vehicle died at the scene. Additionally, a 49-year-old man in one of the trucks and the 62-year-old driver of the Ford Ranger were injured and taken to the Río Cuarto Hospital for medical assistance. Authorities have initiated an investigation to establish responsibilities and reconstruct the sequence of events.
The victims were identified as Lorenzo Oreste Manera, 74, and his wife, Sara Noemí Bengoa, 80. Manera was a general practitioner who directed the Hospital Dr. Oscar Arraiz in Villa La Angostura. He arrived in the Neuquén town from Rincón de los Sauces and also presided over the Movimiento Popular Neuquino (MPN). Former mayor Hugo Panessi remembered him as a very humane social leader who accompanied neighbors from birth to their final days.
For her part, Bengoa developed much of her career as a teacher and principal of School No. 104, the only educational institution in the town's early years. She also led the local nursing home and participated in community theater. The couple leaves behind a legacy of service and four children.
The Municipality of Villa La Angostura expressed its sorrow over the loss of two fundamental figures for the community, highlighting their commitment, vocation for service, and human quality that left an indelible mark.
Wake and Funeral: The couple's remains will be bid farewell this Friday, July 17 from 12:00 PM at the Mutual Policial hall, and will be laid to rest at 6:00 PM in the Villa La Angostura cemetery.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
