Flamengo right-back Ramon Ramos Lima has confirmed he was involved in a crash on Saturday night that killed a cyclist in Rio de Janeiro.
Ramon, 20 years old, run past Jonatas Davis dos Santos, a food delivery cyclist in the Barra de Tijuca neighborhood of Rio, and immediately stopped to call an ambulance and bring the victim.
Dos Santos, 30, died on the way to the hospital and Ramon, who is said to have been accompanied by his wife at the time of the accident, went to a nearby police station to make a statement before being released.
Ramon said in a statement that he respected traffic laws and was speeding when the accident occurred.
Ramon said: “I am so sorry for the tragic accident I was involved in last Saturday night, in Barra da Tijuca, West District of Rio de Janeiro. “This accident killed Mr. Jonatas Davi dos Santos.
“I insisted that I was within the speed limit when I was taken by surprise by Jonathan, who was riding his bike.
“I repeat that, immediately after the accident happened, I called for help and stayed at the scene to provide all assistance and information to the authorities. I am ready to cooperate with the calls. investigation of the case.
“We are reaching out to Jonathan’s family to provide the necessary support and to collaborate with possible funeral costs. It has been a very sad and emotional time, but also a time of respect and love others. Let’s get through this together.”
Flamengo President Rodolfo Landim said Ramon has consistently demonstrated “exemplary behavior and will be supported by the club in dealing with this tragic situation.”
Ramon, who came on as a substitute in his team’s 1-1 draw at Sport Recife on Friday, was dropped from Flamengo’s lineup for Monday’s game met Santos at the Maracana Stadium.
He has made 38 appearances for Flamengo, 24 of them this season, since making his first division debut with the club in 2018.
