Bolivars Best Gun‑Security Mistake: Soldiers Shoot Baby Shower Car in Rio
What Went Down?
- Location: North‑district of Guadalupe, Rio de Janeiro.
- Victim: One of the five occupants, a baby shower car, was killed after more than 80 bullets went through.
- Survivors: Two others were injured, a seven‑year‑old left unharmed.
- How: Soldiers thought the white sedan was a criminal squad – no weapons found inside.
Caught on the Spot: Arrests and Investigation
- Arrests: Ten army personnel detained for allegedly “failing to comply with rules of engagement.”
- Police Probe: Homicide officer Leonardo Salgado confirmed the confusion and ruled the fire unsanctioned.
- Quotes: “Lots of shots, no legit reason.”
Why Did the Military Even Show Up?
- History: The army took over Rio’s security on Dec. 31, 2022, after a decade‑long police crisis.
- Policy: President Jair Bolsonaro & Governor Wilson Witzel pushed a hard‑line stance on drug gangs.
- Stats: In Witzel’s first months, 305 people died at police hands – a 17.6 % jump from 2018.
- Tweet‑worthy: There’s talk of snipers now, so maybe the army should bring a flashlight to the next baby shower.
Key Takeaway: Confused Armies Make Dangerous Mistakes
Short of “rocket‑launch” tactics, it’s a plain‑old case of mistaken identity, but with a very expensive scorecard. The army has stressed its commitment to “transparency and legality” while admitting the incident was an “excess.” All that to say, next time anyone stops for a lullaby, triple‑check for that white suspect car.
