Former Botafogo player Túlio Souza was involved in a car accident on Saturday, October 31, in João Pessoa, Paraíba. The collision occurred at a crossing on Ministro José Américo de Almeida Avenue, known as Avenida Beira Rio.
Souza was driving an SUV when a pickup truck reportedly ran a red light at high speed and struck the side of his vehicle. The impact knocked down the traffic-light structure, leading authorities to close the avenue in both directions.
According to agents from João Pessoa’s Executive Superintendence of Urban Mobility and military police officers, the pickup driver did not have a driving licence. He was arrested at the scene and taken to a police station. Police said he showed signs of impairment in a breathalyser test, but he was later released after paying bail.
Souza was not injured. Speaking to TV Cabo Branco, he said the incident happened quickly and that the pickup appeared to be almost airborne because of its speed. He had been travelling toward Recife and said his son had initially been expected to join him, but ultimately did not make the trip.
Away from professional football since 2015, Souza remains involved in the sport as a players’ agent. He recently held a position on the board of Serra Branca, a club based in Campina Grande, his hometown.
Souza began his professional career with Sport in 2001 after coming through Botafogo’s youth system. His final club was Botafogo-PB, the Paraíba team that shares its name with the Rio de Janeiro side.
Sources: Globo Esporte.