VENDA NOVA DO IMIGRANTE, Brazil — A quiet moment of intimacy turned deadly early Monday, August 4, when a parked car carrying a young couple veered off a cliff at a scenic overlook and plunged hundreds of feet, killing both occupants.
The victims have been identified as Marcone da Silva Cardoso, 26, and Adriana Machado Ribeiro, 42. Local police say the pair had left a party and driven to a lookout popular with hang-gliding enthusiasts. It is believed that while parked and in an intimate moment, movement inside the vehicle caused it to slowly roll over the edge—even though the handbrake was engaged.
The Incident
Authorities suspect the accident occurred around 1:00 a.m., when cardoso and ribeiro became intimate inside the parked vehicle. On the morning of the incident, a caretaker discovered the wreckage. The car had tumbled down a rocky slope, throwing both individuals out and leaving them at the crash site, unclothed. Vehicle parts were scattered throughout dense vegetation.
Estimates suggest the car initially fell approximately 100 meters, then continued tumbling for another 300 to 400 meters, a harrowing descent investigators believe was fatal on impact.
Investigation and Community Response
Police officials have confirmed that there are no signs of foul play—no violence was detected at the scene, and the handbrake was engaged, indicating an accidental rollover due to internal movement. Forensic reports are pending to confirm for sure.
Witness Tiago Amorim described the aftermath: “I saw the car’s engine very far away… it was shocking. The car was destroyed.”
Remembering the Victims
Both victims left behind young children: Adriana was a mother of two from a previous relationship, while Marcone was father to a four-year-old son. They had reportedly been together for around six months. Friends and family remember them fondly as caring, devoted, and full of life.
Geographic Context
The accident took place in Venda Nova do Imigrante, a municipality in the Brazilian state of Espírito Santo known for its rugged, mountainous terrain and scenic vistas. The elevation and complex landscape contribute to both its beauty and potential hazards.
Final Notes
This tragedy underscores the unforeseen risks associated with remote, elevated locations—even during seemingly innocent moments. As the investigation continues, authorities emphasize caution when parking near cliffs and the importance of secure vehicle positioning at all times.