Fernandez Pedra in court Friday in fatal accident case that left two dead

ORANJESTAD — One of Aruba’s most closely followed criminal cases of 2026 returns to court on Friday morning, October 2, when proceedings continue against C. Fernandez Pedra. She faces, among other charges, two counts of homicide and two counts of attempted homicide in connection with the fatal January 4, 2026 incident on L.G. Smith Boulevard.

According to the Public Prosecutor’s Office, Fernandez Pedra was driving a Jeep Compass without a valid driver’s license and under the influence of alcohol. Prosecutors allege that she was in an emotional state, was driving at an excessively high speed and failed to adjust her speed to the road conditions. She is also accused of failing to pay sufficient attention to other road users, particularly pedestrians, failing to keep to the right and failing to take evasive action to avoid a collision.

Two pedestrians, Josely Paulina Vasquez Gonzalez and Carlos David Vialez Valerio, died following the impact. The incident occurred near the Wind Creek Casino and caused widespread concern in the community.

Prosecutors have also charged Fernandez Pedra with two counts of attempted homicide involving two other pedestrians who, according to the indictment, narrowly avoided being struck while crossing the road. Alternatively, prosecutors have charged attempted serious bodily injury. The case also includes charges of leaving the scene of the accident, driving under the influence and driving without a valid license.

The proceedings were previously postponed while additional investigation remained pending, including examination of the vehicle’s electronic system and a psychological report. The court previously ruled that Fernandez Pedra would remain in custody and stressed that effective legal representation was essential before the case could proceed.

Fernandez Pedra has previously described the incident as “a terrible accident” and stressed that she has not been convicted. The charges remain allegations that must be proven in court, and she is presumed innocent unless and until convicted.