Milan authorities are investigating a pre-dawn crash between a rented Mercedes G-Class and an Opel Corsa that killed a 19-year-old passenger and left three others injured. The collision caused severe damage to both vehicles, with the SUV’s body separated from its frame in the impact.
Who Was Involved
According to investigators, the Mercedes, believed to be a high-performance AMG variant, carried four occupants: a 30-year-old woman, a 23-year-old man, a 20-year-old suspected of driving without a valid license, and the 19-year-old who died in the crash. The driver of the Opel, a 32-year-old man, reportedly tested positive in an on-scene drug test.
Investigators Say the Driver Tried to Mislead Them
Initial reports suggested the deceased 19-year-old had been driving the Mercedes. Investigators now believe the 20-year-old passenger was actually behind the wheel and allegedly attempted to avoid responsibility by claiming he was merely a bystander at the scene. Surveillance footage, blood found on clothing, and a single shoe recovered from the wreckage reportedly contradicted that account, leading investigators to suspect he was the actual driver.
Extent of the Damage
Photos from the scene show the extent of the crash’s severity. The Mercedes sustained catastrophic structural damage, with its frame separated from the body and vehicle components scattered across the roadway. The Opel also sustained significant damage, though it remained largely intact.
What Investigators Believe Contributed to the Crash
Speed is believed to have been a significant factor in the crash. Authorities continue to investigate the exact sequence of events, and no charges have been officially confirmed at this stage. As with any ongoing investigation, all individuals involved are presumed innocent of any wrongdoing unless proven otherwise in court.