A devastating traffic accident shook the community when a man lost his life and several others were left injured on the busy Juan Pablo Segundo Highway, near the entrance to La Reforma on the road leading to Samaná. The collision, which took place in broad daylight, has deeply saddened residents of Moca and surrounding areas.
The victim was identified as Jorge Iván Cáceres Fernández, a native of Moca, who had been driving a white Ford SUV at the time of the incident. Jorge was well known in his community, and news of his sudden passing spread quickly, leaving neighbors and friends in shock.
Traveling with him was Vilma Santana, who suffered serious injuries in the crash. Emergency responders confirmed that she was transported in critical condition to a nearby hospital, where doctors continue to fight to stabilize her health. Her family has been notified, and they remain by her side, hoping for her recovery.
According to the first reports, the SUV driven by Jorge Iván Cáceres collided directly with a rice truck. The truck, which was carrying two workers, sustained significant damage, but fortunately its occupants escaped with only minor injuries. They were treated at the scene and later released.
The accident occurred close to the Don Francisco rest stop, a well-known landmark on the route that connects Santo Domingo with Samaná. This stretch of highway, although heavily traveled, has long been considered dangerous due to sharp curves and the frequent presence of heavy vehicles.
Within minutes, agents of DIGESETT and members of the National Police, together with the 9-1-1 Emergency System, rushed to the location. Their swift response ensured that the injured were transported quickly, traffic was redirected, and an investigation was launched without delay.
Authorities are now working to determine the exact circumstances that led to this tragedy. While official conclusions have not yet been released, preliminary accounts suggest that the SUV may have lost control before crashing into the truck. Whether this was due to mechanical failure, road conditions, or driver error remains under investigation.
Local residents who witnessed the aftermath expressed both sorrow and frustration. Many recalled that this part of the highway has seen multiple accidents in recent years and urged authorities to implement stricter safety measures, such as improved signage, speed monitoring, and better road maintenance.
The death of Jorge Iván Cáceres Fernández has left a deep void in the community of Moca, where he was regarded as a hardworking and respected man. Friends and family have already begun paying tribute to his memory, sharing heartfelt messages about his kindness and the positive mark he left on those around him.
As investigations continue, the community grieves, hoping that lessons learned from this accident will lead to safer conditions on the nation’s highways. For now, the tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for caution on the road.