The tragic car crash that claimed the lives of Liverpool forward Diogo Jota and his brother, Andre Silva, is under investigation by Spanish authorities, with early indications suggesting that excessive speed may have been a contributing factor. The accident occurred early Thursday morning near Zamora, in northwestern Spain, on the Rias Bajas Highway (A-52).
Initial reports suggested that a burst tire may have caused the Lamborghini the brothers were traveling in to veer off the road and subsequently catch fire. However, a source close to the sub-delegate of the Spanish government in Zamora revealed that police are investigating the crash as "a possible speeding incident". The Guardia Civil, the Spanish law enforcement agency leading the investigation, has stated that it is impossible to determine the exact speed of the vehicle at the time of the crash but that investigators will be able to provide an approximate speed in their final report based on factors such as skid marks.
Alfonso Ibanez, the provincial head of traffic in Zamora, is compiling data on the road conditions, including the surface, layout, and barriers that Jota's car collided with. Investigators are considering several factors, including the speed of the car, whether a tire puncture occurred, potential road hazards, human error, fatigue levels, and possible car faults. The A-52 highway has been noted as a dangerous road with a history of accidents.
Diogo Jota, 28, was traveling to the UK via car and ferry to report for pre-season training after undergoing lung surgery, which advised against flying. His brother, Andre Silva, was also a professional soccer player. The accident occurred just 10 days after Jota married his long-term girlfriend, Rute Cardoso. He leaves behind his wife and three children.
The news of Jota's death has sent shockwaves through the soccer world, with tributes pouring in from teammates, coaches, and fans. Liverpool FC has requested privacy for Jota's family, friends, teammates, and club staff during this difficult time and is providing them with full support. The team's return to preseason training has been postponed, and many players flew to Portugal for Jota's funeral on Saturday.
