Three agents of the Federal Highway Police of Rio de Janeiro died in an accident while pursuing suspects in the early hours of Friday (18). Carlos Eduardo Mariath Macedo, 41, and Rodrigo Pizetta Fraga, 47, were crowded at the Duque de Caxias PRF police station. Diego Abreu de Figueiredo, 47, worked at the Rio de Janeiro police station. 
Another agent who was also in the car was attended at Getúlio Vargas State Hospital and has been discharged. The accident occurred on the side lane of Avenida Brasil, at the time of the Vigário Geral neighborhood, north of the capital.
Witnesses reported to the Civil Police that the vehicle chased a motorcyclist when he hit the back of a passenger car. The two vehicles overturned and collided with a pole. A couple and a child, who occupied the passenger car, had minor injuries, were assisted in an ambulance of the Fire Department on site and then released.
The circumstances of the accident are already being investigated and the Civil Police have been expertise at the scene. Researchers are also looking for images of security cameras in the region and performing other steps.
The Minister of Justice and Public Security, Ricardo Lewandowski, expressed deep regret for the death of the agents and expressed solidarity to the families and friends of the victims. In a statement issued by the ministry, Lewandowski also reiterated “the federal government’s commitment to provide all the necessary support to family members at this time of pain.”
The text also points out that “the police involved were in the exercise of their duties, committed to ensuring safety on federal highways during the holiday” and recognizes “the tireless work of the corporation.”
PRF Director-General Antonio Fernando Oliveira decreed an official three-day mourning throughout the institution and come to Rio de Janeiro to meet with the local superintendent and personally pay tribute to their uniformed colleagues.
In a statement, the corporation expressed “their deepest solidarity to the police, friends and co -workers of the police, reaffirming the commitment to the memory and legacy of those who gave their lives in defense of society.”
Expanded article at 1:50 pm to increase information.
