18-Year-Old Killed, Children Among Critically Injured as Speeding Truck Plows Into Pedestrians

 

An 18-year-old girl has tragically lost her life, and seven others—including three children—have been critically injured after a speeding truck crashed into a group of pedestrians in Balsas, southern Maranhão, Brazil.

The horrific incident occurred on Sunday, the 18th, and was captured in a now-viral TikTok video. The footage shows a group of people walking along a road moments before a fast-approaching pickup truck veers into their path, striking multiple victims and throwing them violently onto the tarmac.

The deceased, identified as Maria Eduarda Silva, was the mother of one of the injured children. Her sister, Maria Aparecida Silva, is reportedly in critical condition, while three others are undergoing treatment in local hospitals and are said to be in stable condition.

Driver Arrested Amid DUI Suspicions

The driver of the vehicle has been identified as Maria do Perpétuo Socorro Cardoso Weiler. According to police reports, she refused a breathalyzer test at the scene but exhibited visible signs of intoxication. She was immediately arrested and is expected to provide a formal statement to law enforcement on Monday, the 19th.

The Civil Police of Maranhão have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, which has sparked widespread outrage and grief online.

Online Reactions Stir Debate

The tragedy has ignited a heated conversation across social media platforms. Many users expressed their condolences, while others debated the actions of both the driver and the pedestrians. Below are some of the reactions:

• @2020jcl: “Why are they walking on the street?”

• @n6oflife6: “It doesn’t matter that they were walking on the street, that person ran them over on purpose.”

• @definitelynotme: “Even if they were on the road, the car had no business going that fast. Justifying this is insane.”

• @ShehryarHassan: “Everyone saying ‘why were they walking on the street’ only because it wasn’t their loved one who got hit.”

Investigation Ongoing

Authorities are currently reviewing video footage and witness statements to determine whether reckless driving or deliberate intent played a role in the crash. Community members are also calling for stricter road safety enforcement in pedestrian-heavy areas.

Maria Eduarda’s death adds to growing concerns over road safety and drunk driving in the region.