Netflix’s new documentary miniseries, "50 segundos," has cast a global spotlight on the tragic murder of Fernando Báez Sosa. The series, which premiered on November 13, recounts the brutal crime that deeply impacted Argentina. Báez Sosa was just 18 years old when his life was violently cut short.
Before his death, Fernando was a typical young man from Buenos Aires. He lived with his parents, Silvino Báez and Graciela Sosa, who had immigrated from Paraguay seeking a better life. Fernando was described as joyful, respectful, and reserved, with dreams of studying law to help others.
The tragedy unfolded on January 18, 2020, during a vacation with friends in Villa Gesell, a city in the eastern part of Buenos Aires province. An altercation occurred inside the Le Brique nightclub. Minutes later, Fernando was attacked outside by a group of eight young men.
He was brutally beaten in less than a minute, leading to his death. The attack was recorded on witnesses’ cell phones, and even by one of the aggressors. This footage quickly sparked national outrage.
The dissemination of videos and witness testimonies ignited an unprecedented wave of indignation across Argentina. Millions identified with Fernando, a seemingly ordinary young man without a criminal record. Further outrage came from messages and audio recordings sent by the attackers after the crime.
Fernando’s parents, Silvino and Graciela, became powerful symbols in the pursuit of justice. They attended every court hearing and organized peaceful marches. Society overwhelmingly supported them, with thousands protesting to demand accountability for Fernando.
Five of the attackers received life sentences for the crime. These included Máximo Thomsen, Ciro Pertossi, Enzo Comelli, Matías Benicelli, and Luciano Pertossi. The verdict was delivered on February 6, 2023.
Three other individuals, Ayrton Viollaz, Blas Cinalli, and Lucas Pertossi, were found to be secondary participants. They were each sentenced to 15 years in prison. The documentary highlights how the attackers, former rugby players with a history of group brawls, were identified through social media.
"50 segundos" takes its title from the duration of the fatal attack. The miniseries uses interviews, judicial archives, and real videos to reconstruct the case. Its aim is not merely to recount a crime but to remember Fernando Báez Sosa and explain why his death profoundly affected a nation.