The town of Sidrolândia, in Mato Grosso do Sul, is mourning a heartbreaking tragedy that claimed the lives of Drielle Leite Lopes and her three young children—Helena, 10, João Lúcio, 2, and José Augusto, just 3 months old. The family died in a horrific car crash on BR-060 while returning from a visit to Drielle’s mother, where they had joyfully shared news of buying their first home.
The crash, caused by a drunk and drug-impaired driver attempting a reckless overtaking maneuver, has shaken the community. The Corsa he was driving struck a truck and then collided with the Saveiro carrying Drielle’s family. The impact killed four members instantly. The driver, who was ejected from the car, is hospitalized under police guard and faces preventive detention.
The wake, held at the City Council, was filled with grief, outrage, and disbelief. Drielle’s husband, though physically spared, is emotionally shattered. Their 12-year-old son, who also survived, remains hospitalized after multiple surgeries. The tragedy has reignited urgent calls for justice and stricter measures against reckless driving under the influence.