Puerto Varas, Chile – Sergeant Second Javier Figueroa Manquemilla, a member of Carabineros de Chile, has died after more than a week in critical condition following a shooting during a routine police check. The 33-year-old officer succumbed to his injuries in the early hours of Thursday, March 19, 2026, bringing an end to a case that has gripped the Los Lagos region and prompted an ongoing investigation. The death of Sergeant Figueroa underscores the risks faced by law enforcement officers in Chile and has sparked an outpouring of grief from the community and within the national police force.
The shooting occurred during the early morning hours of Wednesday, March 11, 2026, as Figueroa and his team were responding to reports of a group consuming alcohol near a railway line in Puerto Varas. He was struck in the head by a single gunshot and immediately transported to the Hospital de Puerto Montt, where he remained on life support. Doctors confirmed he was brain-dead days later, but he remained hospitalized until his passing. The incident has prompted a thorough investigation by the Fiscalía Regional de Los Lagos and the Policía de Investigaciones (PDI).
The Fiscalía Regional de Los Lagos confirmed Figueroa’s death shortly after midnight on Thursday, expressing its deepest condolences to Carabineros de Chile, his colleagues, and his family. “His departure mourns not only his institution, but also the community he served with commitment and vocation,” the Fiscalía stated in a social media post. The statement was accompanied by a screenshot from the Fiscalía’s Instagram account.
Investigation Focuses on Alcohol Consumption and Potential Suspects
Investigators have recovered three shell casings at the scene of the shooting, including the projectile that struck Sergeant Figueroa. Preliminary reports suggest the firearm was discharged at close range, according to reports. As of Thursday, no arrests have been made in connection with the shooting. Authorities are currently focusing on identifying the individuals who were reportedly drinking alcohol in the area at the time of the incident.
The PDI and the Fiscalía are jointly leading the investigation, but details remain scarce as the inquiry is being conducted under a veil of secrecy. The investigation is currently classified as confidential, limiting the information released to the public. The investigation remains in a reserved status, according to BioBioChile.
Key Evidence: Security Camera Footage
A crucial piece of evidence in the investigation is security camera footage obtained from a nearby residence. The footage, captured by a camera located just meters from the railway line where the shooting occurred, appears to demonstrate at least three gunshots being fired. According to a report from T13, the video has been turned over to the Ministerio Público and is considered key to understanding the sequence of events that led to Sergeant Figueroa’s death.
The hospital in Puerto Montt reported on March 12 that Figueroa remained in critical condition, connected to a ventilator and under constant medical monitoring. The hospital stated that he was receiving all necessary medical treatments based on his clinical condition.
The death of Sergeant Figueroa is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officials in Chile. The case has prompted calls for increased safety measures for police officers and a renewed focus on combating crime in the Los Lagos region. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet released information regarding potential motives or suspects.
Authorities have not announced a timeline for potential arrests or further developments in the case. The Fiscalía Regional de Los Lagos has stated that it will provide updates as the investigation progresses. Anyone with information related to the shooting is urged to contact the PDI or the Fiscalía.
If you are struggling with grief or loss, resources are available. You can reach out to a crisis hotline or mental health professional for support.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
