Minors Driving Motorcycles in Cartagena: Consequences for Them and Their Families
Martín Ruiz Meza, 72, a blacksmith by trade, was killed by a motorcycle driven by a 16-year-old minor on La Villa street in the Rafael Núñez sector of Olaya Herrera. It happened at 8:40 PM last Saturday, March 7, when 'el Chino,' as he was affectionately called, was crossing the street to buy grilled pork chop.
TL;DR
- A 72-year-old man was killed by a motorcycle driven by a 16-year-old in Cartagena.
- Both the minor driver and his 17-year-old passenger were injured.
- The DATT confirms frequent underage motorcycle use in Cartagena, with 55 minors involved in accidents and 123 injured in 2025.
- In 2025, 45 individuals not minors were affected in accidents where minors were driving.
- As of 2026, 16 traffic accidents involving minors have occurred in Cartagena, including the fatal one.
- The DATT is conducting prevention campaigns in schools and communities, involving police and child welfare agencies.
- Underage drivers often lack licenses, increasing risks.
- Accidents involving minors lead to legal and psychological consequences for them and civil/economic consequences for parents.
- The DATT urges parents to prevent minors from using motorcycles for work or errands, emphasizing education and formation.
- The importance of parental and citizen awareness is highlighted to prevent avoidable tragedies.