On Monday, June 9, 2025, Jorge John Salavarría Zambrano, 50, died following a workplace accident at the Carrasco site, located in Santa Rita parish, Chone. The incident occurred during the unloading of materials for a community project when Salavarría was struck by a falling metal pipe.

The accident happened shortly after 10:30 p.m., while a group of residents was unloading construction materials intended for local development initiatives. Among the volunteers was Salavarría, director of the Tiwinza Educational Unit. A video circulating on social media shows a van loaded with pipes and wooden beams being supported by ropes. One side gave way, causing a heavy metal pipe to fall and strike the teacher.

Residents rushed to assist the victim, who was left unconscious from the impact. He was transported by private vehicle to a nearby health center, but succumbed to his injuries en route. A preliminary medical report indicated damage to vital organs.

National Police officers responded to the scene and began an investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident. Salavarría’s body was transferred to the Santo Domingo forensic center for autopsy, given its proximity. Authorities are working to determine whether negligence or liability played a role in the tragedy.

Jorge Salavarría was a respected educator and director, known throughout Santa Rita for his dedication to both teaching and community development. Residents described him as sociable, responsible, and deeply committed to improving local conditions. He had volunteered for the material unloading effort that ultimately led to his death.

Expressions of grief poured in from colleagues, students, and families throughout Chone. The teachers’ union and members of the educational community shared condolences on social media, remembering Salavarría as a leader who “always supported everyone.” His passing has deeply impacted the local education sector.

Chone, located in Ecuador’s Manabí province, has seen several incidents tied to community and informal work activities, often linked to inadequate safety measures. According to Ecuador’s Ministry of Labor, more than 1,500 workplace accidents were reported in 2024, with approximately 10% occurring during informal or community-led construction projects.

Authorities emphasized the urgent need to implement and enforce safety protocols in such activities to avoid further tragedies.

The National Police are currently analyzing video footage of the incident and interviewing witnesses to determine what caused the structural failure. Investigators are examining whether the vehicle's support system complied with safety regulations. The Prosecutor’s Office will oversee the legal process and determine if charges are warranted.

As of now, funeral arrangements for Salavarría, a native of Santa Rita’s urban parish, have not been officially announced. The local educational community is planning a tribute to honor his legacy. In response to the incident, local leaders have called for reinforced safety measures in all community service efforts going forward.