Driver who fled fatal Albufeira crash identified and charged

A 22-year-old man has been identified and charged by the GNR after allegedly fleeing the scene of a crash in Albufeira that claimed the life of a 25-year-old passenger earlier this week.

The fatal accident occurred in the early hours of Monday, July 6 on the EM526 municipal road in the Branqueira area of Albufeira, when the car left the road. The passenger was pronounced dead at the scene.

Following an investigation by the GNR’s Traffic Accident Investigation Unit (NICAV), officers located and identified the suspected driver on Wednesday, July 8.

According to the GNR, the man has been formally charged on suspicion of causing death by negligent driving, failing to assist the victim after the crash, dangerous driving, and driving without a licence.

Police allege that the driver abandoned the scene before emergency services and officers arrived. Another passenger also left the scene following the crash.

The case has been forwarded to the Albufeira Public Prosecutor’s Office (DIAP), which is continuing the investigation.

Michael Bruxo

Journalist for the Portugal Resident.