Christian missionaries struck by car on sidewalk in Brazil

Two missionaries from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints were injured on Saturday afternoon when a vehicle mounted the sidewalk and struck them in the Lindóia neighborhood of Curitiba. The men, both 20 years old and members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, have been in Brazil for just over a year on a religious mission.

Security camera footage shows the men standing on the sidewalk when the car struck them. According to eyewitnesses, the driver and a passenger, who briefly exited the vehicle after the collision, appeared to be intoxicated. Neither offered assistance before fleeing the scene.

Sgt. Gabardo of the Curitiba Fire Department said the victims were fortunate, sustaining only minor injuries despite the severity of the impact. “They suffered contusions and scrapes, but no fractures were detected. They were transported to a hospital for further evaluation,” he said.

One of the missionaries, David Perry Betley, recounted the incident. “We were walking and visiting people to talk about the Lord Christ. Suddenly, a white car came at us. I fell, and my friend was carried about 20 meters before he hit the ground. We waited for the ambulance to arrive.”

The other victim described being lifted by the car, upside down, before the driver slowed and he managed to move to safety. Both men noted that the occupants of the vehicle were under the influence and unhelpful, despite offering cursory apologies.

Despite the harrowing experience, the missionaries emphasized their faith and mission. “We know we are here for a good purpose, and our Lord Jesus Christ has power to help us in all things,” Mr. Betley said. He also addressed the perpetrators directly: “Jesus Christ loves all people. It’s never too late to change and be better. I, too, need to improve; no one is perfect.”

Authorities have not yet reported the apprehension of the driver. The incident underscores ongoing concerns in Brazilian cities about pedestrian safety and the dangers posed by impaired driving.