Puerto Varas, Chile – President José Antonio Kast mourned the death of Sergeant Javier Figueroa Manquemilla, a 32-year-old Carabineros officer who died Thursday night after a week in critical condition following a shooting in Puerto Varas, in the Los Lagos region. The death of Sergeant Figueroa, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head during a routine traffic stop, has sparked national grief and renewed debate over the safety of law enforcement officers in Chile.
The incident occurred on March 11, 2026, during a check for suspected drunk driving, according to reports. Sergeant Figueroa was struck even as on duty, and his condition deteriorated rapidly, ultimately resulting in brain death before his passing. The loss is being deeply felt across the country, with many expressing condolences and demanding justice for the fallen officer. This tragic event underscores the risks faced by Chilean police officers in the line of duty, and the commitment they make to public safety.
President Kast addressed the nation via social media, describing the attack as a “cowardly act” and stating, “Cada vez que muere un Carabinero, se muere una parte de Chile” – “Every time a Carabinero dies, a part of Chile dies with them.” He pledged to pursue the perpetrators relentlessly and ensure they are brought to justice. “We will continue to work to support and protect our Carabineros, and we will tirelessly seek those responsible so that this crime does not go unpunished,” Kast affirmed.
Lamento profundamente el fallecimiento del Sargento Javier Figueroa Manquemilla, quien no pudo sobrevivir al cobarde ataque del que fue víctima hace una semana.
Cada vez que muere un Carabinero, se muere una parte de Chile.
Seguiremos trabajando para apoyar y proteger a…
— José Antonio Kast Rist 🖐️🇨🇱 (@joseantoniokast) March 20, 2026
Minister of Security, Trinidad Steinert, also expressed her deepest condolences to the family of Sergeant Figueroa and to the entire Carabineros force. In a statement posted on X, Steinert assured the public that all available resources would be deployed to apprehend those responsible for the crime. “I condemn this act of violence and reaffirm my support for their work,” she said.
Mis más sentidas condolencias a la familia del sargento segundo Javier Figueroa y a Carabineros de Chile.
Se desplegarán todos los recursos para llevar ante la justicia a los responsables. Condeno este acto de violencia y reafirmo mi respaldo a su labor. pic.twitter.com/tA35JkoEMI
— Trinidad Steinert (@MinSteinert) March 20, 2026
Calls for Justice and Stronger Security Measures
The death of Sergeant Figueroa has ignited calls for stricter law enforcement and harsher penalties for those who attack police officers. Members of the “pro-Carabineros” parliamentary group – lawmakers who advocate for increased support for the police – have demanded a “firm hand” in response to the incident. “The Sergeant Javier Figueroa leaves us fulfilling his oath: to give his life, if necessary, to protect ours,” stated Deputy Francisco Orrego. “Enough with the condemnations, and regrets. We necessitate a firm hand. These outlaws must be dried up in jail.”
Deputy Javiera Rodríguez echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the devastating impact on the officer’s family and the need for the state to protect its uniformed personnel. “Today, a family loses hope that Javier will reach home. The State of Chile cannot allow that hope to be lost for any family of uniformed officers. Justice must be done, and no more Carabineros should be a sacrifice,” she said.
Investigation Ongoing, Details Remain Limited
Details surrounding the shooting remain limited as the investigation continues. Authorities have not yet released information regarding a suspect or a motive. The incident occurred during a routine traffic stop in Puerto Varas, prompted by concerns about public intoxication, according to initial reports. The Los Lagos region has seen increased scrutiny regarding public safety in recent months, and this incident is likely to fuel further debate on the issue.
The death of Sergeant Figueroa comes less than two weeks after President Kast’s inauguration on March 11, 2026. Kast had previously addressed the shooting, stating that an attack on a police officer was an attack on all of Chile, and promising a strong response.
The investigation is being led by the Carabineros de Chile, with support from the Public Prosecutor’s Office. Authorities have vowed to dedicate all necessary resources to solving the case and bringing the perpetrator(s) to justice. The focus remains on gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and analyzing forensic data.
The loss of Sergeant Figueroa is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the importance of ensuring their safety. The incident has prompted a national conversation about public safety, police protection, and the need for a swift and decisive response to violence against officers.
Authorities have not yet announced a date for Sergeant Figueroa’s funeral. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The Carabineros de Chile have established a dedicated hotline for anyone with information related to the shooting.
This is a developing story. We will continue to provide updates as they become available. Share your thoughts and condolences in the comments below.
