On September 21, 2024 a bus carrying members of the Coritiba Crocodiles American football team overturned on the Presidente Dutra highway in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil killing three players and injuring six others. The team was traveling to Rio de Janeiro for a Brazilian American Football League match against the Flamengo Imperadores at the time of the accident.

Local media identified the deceased as Daniel Cross, Lucas Barros, and Lucas Padilha. Barros was a 20-year-old wide receiver and captain of Brazil’s U20 national team. In a heartbreaking social media post, Felip Muniz, a team staff member, said, “Lucas, Penguin, and Captain, I still can’t believe you’re gone. Yesterday, unfortunately, was the day to say goodbye to three brothers.” 

Carrying 43 passengers, the bus flipped onto its side during the journey. Photos from the scene show the vehicle lying across the road. Authorities are investigating the cause of the accident, and the injured passengers are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital. The team expressed their sorrow in a statement, asking for support and positive thoughts during this difficult time.

The accident has cast a shadow over the growing popularity of American football in Brazil. The country has seen increased interest in the sport, especially with the recent NFL expansion into international markets. Brazil hosted its first NFL game earlier this year, a landmark event for fans and players alike. The league has made efforts to establish a presence in Brazil, with events such as flag football leagues, Super Bowl watch parties, and partnerships with Brazilian media outlets.

Barros had posted on social media shortly before the crash, celebrating the NFL’s first game in Brazil. His love for the game was evident, and his loss is felt deeply across the American football community in Brazil and abroad. The Coritiba Crocodiles held a vigil at their home stadium, Croco Stadium, the night of the crash, allowing teammates and fans to honor those lost. The Brazilian Football Confederation also paid tribute to the victims with a minute of silence before matches over the weekend.

The bus company, Princesa dos Campos, has released a statement expressing condolences and confirming that they are assisting the families of those affected. The company is cooperating with authorities in the investigation and has hired specialists to examine the incident.