Lisbon Taxi Driver Confesses to Fatal Hit-and-Run of 21-Year-Old Student, Apologizes to Victim's Parents in Court

Taxi Driver Admits Guilt in Fatal Hit-and-Run Case

In a dramatic turn of events, the taxi driver accused of fatally striking 21-year-old student Afonso Gonçalves in Lisbon has confessed to the crime and offered a heartfelt apology to the victim's parents during court proceedings.

First Day of Trial Brings Emotional Confession

The defendant was heard this Thursday on the first day of his trial, where he took full responsibility for the young man's death. This marks a significant development in a case that has gripped the Portuguese capital.

Victim's Father Speaks Out

In an exclusive interview with CMTV, Afonso's father expressed his hope that justice would not fail and that the taxi driver would serve an appropriate sentence. "It's good that he recognizes his mistake, but he must pay for it," the grieving father stated. He added that he could never forgive the man who took his son's life.

Timeline of the Tragic Incident

The case dates back to September 8, 2024, when the taxi driver struck the student and fled the scene. The driver was first detained 48 hours after the crime, was made an official suspect, and subsequently released. He was detained for a second time on October 21, 2024, and has remained in preventive custody since that date.

The trial continues as the court examines the full circumstances surrounding this tragic loss of a young life in Lisbon.