Musician Franco Figueroa, a member of the Coquimbo-based cumbia group “Caleta e’ Cumbia,” has died following a tragic car accident on Ruta 5 Norte. The crash occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning near the Peñuelas sector.
The accident involved a head-on collision between two light vehicles. Authorities are currently investigating the cause of the impact.
The crash also left three other people with injuries of varying severity. The news has caused deep mourning within the Coquimbo region's music community.
A cornerstone of the local cumbia scene
The band's vocalist, Jorge Sasso, confirmed the musician's identity and spoke of his importance to the group. Figueroa, 33, was a resident of Coquimbo's Parte Alta neighborhood and also worked as a heavy machinery operator.
“Franco was a lover of music, especially Caleta cumbia, but he also really loved rock,” Sasso said. The singer added that the musician's son grew up surrounded by artists and has since taken up the bass.
The drummer joined the group during its early stages in 2017. Sasso noted that Figueroa was a fundamental part of developing the unique style that defines the band today.
The musician performed in three editions of the La Pampilla festival, specifically in 2018, 2019, and 2023. Throughout his career, he was dedicated exclusively to Caleta e’ Cumbia, never collaborating with other projects.
Coquimbo Mayor Ali Manouchehri expressed his condolences following the tragedy. “We deeply regret the passing of Franco, who was a member of this renowned local band,” the mayor stated.
The official highlighted the musical talent and the spirit of solidarity that the group has always shared with the community. The musician is survived by three siblings and two children.
A memorial mass will be held on April 12 at noon. The service will take place at the intersection of Anita Lizana and 10 de Julio streets in Coquimbo.