Andorra Police Arrest Driver in Fatal Encamp Crash with 1.72 Alcohol Level

Andorra la Vella police arrested a 36-year-old Encamp resident on Monday after his release from hospital following a fatal three-vehicle crash on Avinguda de la Bartra in Encamp on 1 August.

The Batllia ordered his preventive detention that night at La Comella penitentiary centre after he was placed at judicial disposal. Prosecutors have charged the driver with offences against collective safety, physical and moral integrity, and human life, including homicide and injuries due to serious negligence.

The incident occurred around 6:45pm as the suspect drove his Cupra downhill towards Escaldes-Engordany in heavy rain. With a blood alcohol level of 1.72 grams per litre—far exceeding the legal limit—he lost control, veered into the oncoming lane, clipped a French-registered Peugeot 208, and then struck head-on an Andorran-registered Nissan Micra from Sant Julià de Lòria.

The Micra's 71-year-old passenger, a Sant Julià de Lòria resident who once ran a local restaurant, suffered cardiorespiratory arrest at the scene. SUM teams tried to revive her before hospital transfer, where her death was confirmed. Her daughter, driving the Micra, sustained serious injuries requiring surgery and remains hospitalised. The Peugeot's two occupants had minor injuries and were discharged after on-site care. The suspect, treated for internal injuries over 15 days, has also been released medically.

Investigators note he exceeded the road's speed limit and highlight factors including heavy rain, possible aquaplaning, and prior alcohol consumption at a family barbecue followed by a rest at home. He overtook a bus shortly before the crash. Sources mention his awareness of local road dangers from a previous fatal accident involving a political relative in Encamp.

The police accident unit's report will shape the case, which remains open and could result in a penal order conviction.