Two Cyclists Killed, One Injured in Três Coroas Hit-and-Run; Driver Arrested for Drunk Driving

Tragedy Strikes Cyclists on ERS-115 in Três Coroas

A tragic hit-and-run accident on the ERS-115 highway in Três Coroas, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, on Saturday, February 21, 2026, resulted in the deaths of two cyclists and left a third gravely injured. The incident occurred in the early morning, around 5:45 AM, near kilometer 18 or 19 of the highway.

The victims were identified as Clarissa Felipetti, 38, and Fernanda Mikaella da Silva Barros, 35, who both died at the scene. Clarissa's husband, Isac Ribeiro, 35, was also struck and sustained severe injuries, requiring hospitalization in grave condition.

Driver Fled Scene, Apprehended After Investigation

According to the Military Highway Police (CRBM), the driver of the vehicle, a 42-year-old man whose identity has not been officially released, fled the scene immediately after the collision without rendering aid to the victims. However, a crucial piece of evidence—the vehicle's license plate—was left behind at the accident site.

Utilizing this information and electronic monitoring cameras along the highway, authorities were able to track down the suspect. He was subsequently located and arrested at his residence in Três Coroas. The vehicle involved, a Fiat Palio with plates from Gramado, was also seized for forensic examination. A breathalyzer test administered to the driver confirmed that he was intoxicated at the time of the accident.

Victims Remembered, Investigation Underway

Clarissa Felipetti, known as 'Sissa,' was a well-regarded member of the community. She was a photographer, worked in marketing for Calçados Bebecê, and had previously served as a press advisor for the Três Coroas City Hall. She was married to Isac Ribeiro and was a mother of two children. Fernanda Mikaella da Silva Barros was an employee of Calçados Variettá. Both women were reportedly avid cyclists, often training in the area.

Initial reports from the Military Highway Police suggest that the driver lost control of the vehicle, veered onto the shoulder, and struck the group of cyclists who were riding in the same direction. The ERS-115 was partially blocked for several hours to allow for rescue operations and forensic investigation. The Civil Police have launched an investigation to determine the full circumstances of the accident, including the dynamics of the collision, potential speeding, and road safety conditions in the area.