Incident Overview

A member of the Buenos Aires City Police has been arrested and charged with aggravated homicide following the death of a 20-year-old man in Ituzaingó. The incident occurred Thursday night at the intersection of Martín Rodríguez and Perdomo streets.

Conflicting Accounts of the Shooting

According to initial statements, the officer, identified as Lucas Adrián Gómez—a member of the Special Highway Service Division of the Buenos Aires force—reportedly fired upon two individuals on a motorcycle, believing they were attempting a robbery. He stated he identified himself as a police officer before discharging his weapon.

According to Gómez’s initial statement to the authorities, he was riding a motorcycle with his partner when he observed two men on another motorcycle following them. According to his version, suspecting a possible robbery, he said he stopped his march, identified himself as a police officer and fired two shots with his service weapon, wounding both occupants.

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Though, the surviving occupant of the motorcycle claims they were on their way to a soccer game when the officer opened fire without warning.

The young survivor, who has already been discharged, told the court that he and Leal were heading to a soccer game when they noticed that, meters ahead, a motorcycle stopped abruptly and its driver began to shoot at them without saying a word.

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Victims and Current Status

Juan Cruz Leal (20) succumbed to a gunshot wound to the groin at the Bicentenario Hospital of Ituzaingó. Daniel Enrique Kuhne (20) sustained a gunshot wound to the lateral pectoral area and is reportedly out of danger after receiving treatment at the Posadas Hospital.

Investigation and Charges

The investigation is being led by UFI No. 2 of Ituzaingó, with Prosecutor María Alejandra Bonini ordering Gómez’s immediate arrest. He is facing charges for the crime of aggravated homicide.

Evidence collected at the scene included two 9mm caliber shells and the officer’s service weapon.

About the Buenos Aires City Police

The Buenos Aires City Police was formed in 2017 through the merger of the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Police and the city’s division of the Argentine Federal Police. The force comprises over 25,000 officers and operates under the authority of the Autonomous City.

• Employees: Over 25,000
• Stations: 56
• Chief of Police: Gabriel Berard

FAQ

What is the current status of the investigation?

The investigation is ongoing, led by UFI No. 2 of Ituzaingó and the officer is currently in custody facing charges of aggravated homicide.

What were the victims doing at the time of the shooting?

According to one survivor, they were on their way to play soccer.

How many officers are in the Buenos Aires City Police?

The Buenos Aires City Police is composed of over 25,000 officers.