Santiago, Chile – A harrowing ordeal unfolded for three Chilean footballers – Joaquín Larrivey, Cristóbal Jorquera, and Ángel Gillard – on Saturday night when they were the victims of an “encerrona,” a type of armed robbery targeting vehicles, in the metropolitan region. The incident, which too put Larrivey’s wife and their seven-month-old child at risk, highlights a growing concern over violent crime in the capital city. The ordeal underscores the vulnerability of public figures, even as authorities work to combat this type of criminal activity.
The attack occurred around 9:30 PM on Saturday, March 14, 2026, as the footballers were traveling along the Autopista Central (Central Highway) near the Costanera Norte expressway. According to reports from Chilean authorities, four individuals intercepted their vehicle, a BMW 430i Coupe, and threatened them with firearms. The perpetrators then stole the vehicle, leaving the occupants shaken but unharmed. This type of robbery, known as an “encerrona,” involves blocking a vehicle’s path and then robbing the occupants at gunpoint. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for increased security measures in the area.
Details of the Robbery and Subsequent Chase
Following the theft, the footballers promptly reported the incident to Carabineros de Chile, the national police force. Thanks to the vehicle’s activated GPS tracking system, authorities were able to locate the stolen BMW and initiate a pursuit. The chase culminated in the commune of San Bernardo, a municipality southwest of Santiago, at the intersection of Padre Hurtado and Lo Moreno avenues. According to Lieutenant Joaquín Foster of the 62nd Police Station in San Bernardo, the suspects lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a lamppost during the pursuit. Cooperativa.cl reported that four individuals attempted to flee the scene after the crash.
Police were able to apprehend one suspect at the scene. He was found to be in possession of a flare gun that was capable of firing. Authorities have identified the suspect as a 36-year-old Chilean man with a prior criminal record. He has been taken into custody and is currently being held at the disposal of the Public Prosecutor’s Office. The remaining three suspects remain at large as of Sunday, March 15, 2026.
Further Criminal Activity Linked to the Suspects
The investigation quickly revealed that the suspects were not solely involved in the vehicle theft. A search of the stolen BMW uncovered a significant quantity of cigarettes, leading investigators to believe the group had committed another robbery shortly after stealing the car. BioBioChile reported that the suspects allegedly robbed a local Oxxo convenience store in the commune of Chicureo, intimidating staff and customers before fleeing towards San Bernardo. This additional crime underscores the brazen nature of the group’s actions and the potential danger posed to the public.
The Victims and Their Backgrounds
Joaquín Larrivey, a prominent striker for Deportes Concepción, was accompanied by his wife, Agostina Reinoso, and their seven-month-old son during the attack. Larrivey has had a distinguished career in Chilean football, playing for several top-flight clubs. Cristóbal Jorquera, a midfielder for Magallanes, and Ángel Gillard, also a forward for Deportes Concepción, were also in the vehicle at the time of the incident. The presence of Larrivey’s family in the car significantly heightened the emotional impact of the robbery. The footballers have received widespread support from the Chilean football community and fans following the news of the attack.
Rising Concerns Over Crime in the Metropolitan Region
This incident is part of a broader trend of increasing crime in the Santiago Metropolitan Region. “Encerronas” have become increasingly common, particularly on major highways and expressways during evening hours. Authorities are facing mounting pressure to address the issue and implement effective strategies to deter criminals and protect citizens. The incident involving the footballers has brought renewed attention to the need for increased police presence, improved street lighting, and enhanced security measures on major roadways. Latercera.com noted the growing public anxiety surrounding these types of crimes.
Carabineros de Chile has increased patrols in high-risk areas and is working to improve response times to reported incidents. Authorities are also urging citizens to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police. The Public Prosecutor’s Office is investigating the case and is expected to file formal charges against the apprehended suspect and any other individuals identified as being involved in the robbery and subsequent crimes.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by individuals traveling in the Santiago Metropolitan Region, even those with public profiles. The swift response by Carabineros de Chile and the recovery of the stolen vehicle offer a measure of reassurance, but the underlying issue of rising crime remains a significant challenge for Chilean authorities.
As of Sunday afternoon, March 15, 2026, authorities continue to search for the remaining suspects involved in the robbery and subsequent crimes. The investigation is ongoing, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The Public Prosecutor’s Office is expected to announce formal charges against the apprehended suspect within the next 48 hours.
We encourage readers to share their thoughts on this incident and the broader issue of crime in the Santiago Metropolitan Region in the comments section below. Your insights and perspectives are valuable as we continue to report on this important issue.
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