A traffic accident in southern Quito left six people injured on Sunday, April 26, and temporarily forced the closure of a major roadway, disrupting traffic for several hours.
The incident occurred around 12:21 p.m. on Pedro Vicente Maldonado Avenue, in the La Bretaña sector. According to emergency services, the accident involved an electric motorcycle and included pedestrians being struck.
First responders arrived quickly at the scene, including personnel from the Metropolitan Transit Agency, the Ministry of Public Health, and the National Police. Victims were treated on-site, while others were transported to nearby medical facilities for further care. Authorities did not immediately release details about the severity of the injuries.
The crash initially led to the full closure of all three northbound lanes of the avenue, one of the main routes connecting southern areas of the city. The shutdown caused congestion as emergency crews worked to assist victims and clear the scene.
By mid-afternoon, traffic conditions began to improve. Authorities confirmed that most lanes had reopened, although the Ecovía bus lane remained closed as of approximately 3:30 p.m.
The cause of the accident has not yet been officially confirmed, and investigations are ongoing.
Incidents involving motorcycles—particularly smaller or electric units—have drawn increasing attention in Quito due to their vulnerability in mixed traffic and the potential risks to both riders and pedestrians.
Sunday’s crash serves as another reminder of how quickly traffic conditions can turn dangerous, especially on busy urban corridors where vehicles, public transport, and pedestrians converge.