The tragic deaths of Matías and Benjamín Sobarzo shocked an entire community in Chile. The two brothers, aged just 15 and 13, lost their lives in a devastating accident in the La Araucanía region. What began as a simple family act of patriotism on the eve of national celebrations ended in a heartbreaking tragedy that deeply impacted their loved ones, schoolmates, and neighbors.
The incident took place on the evening of September 15, in the town of Challupén, part of the commune of Villarrica. The family was preparing to raise the national flag—a gesture symbolizing pride and unity—when disaster struck. The boys were helping their mother install a metal flagpole in the yard. While doing so, the pole accidentally came into contact with a high-voltage power line overhead, causing an immediate and powerful electric discharge.
Matías and Benjamín suffered severe burns and were rushed to the Licán Ray health care center. Sadly, Benjamín, 13, passed away shortly after arrival. His older brother Matías, 15, was transferred to the hospital in Villarrica but succumbed to his injuries hours later. Their mother was also injured in the accident and hospitalized in serious condition, suffering burns and electrical trauma.
Authorities confirmed that the incident occurred during an effort to prepare for Chile’s national holiday. At their young age, the brothers were enthusiastically participating in the traditions, clearly feeling eligible—and proud—to contribute to the family’s celebration. Tragically, this sense of responsibility ended in unforeseen loss.
Their father, Marcelo Sobarzo, gave a brief and emotional statement to the press. “I didn’t think it was that serious… I don’t understand why these things happen. God has the last word. I’m devastated, shocked. I don’t know what to do.” Carabineros officials explained that the flagpole had made contact with a live electric wire, forming an arc and delivering a fatal shock to the teenagers. The mother, in attempting to rescue her sons, was also exposed to the electrical current.
Both boys were students at the Humanities School of Villarrica. Teachers and staff described them as vibrant, energetic, and full of life. “They were just like any other children at our school—restless, curious, full of expectations,” one teacher shared. Another, María José, asked for prayers and solidarity: “Let us pray for this family that has suffered a tremendous loss.”
A religious farewell ceremony was held at their school, attended by classmates, teachers, and members of the local community. Photos from the event were shared on social media, accompanied by a heartfelt message:“We gathered as a community to say goodbye to Benjamín and Matías in a mass filled with prayer and faith. We ask God to receive them into His Kingdom and to bring comfort and strength to their loved ones. ‘The Lord is near to the brokenhearted.’ (Psalm 34:18).”
Matías and Benjamín’s deaths deeply affected the Villarrica community. What should have been a moment of patriotic celebration became a devastating tragedy. Their lives, though short, were full of meaning, connection, and love. Their active roles in school and family life made them clearly eligible to participate in and enjoy the celebration—making the loss all the more painful.
