He died during the 1868 San Fernando massacre after President Francisco Solano López accused Bruguez of conspiring against him.

He was promoted to Lieutenant from 1852 to 1854 as he was in professional military classes taught by João Carlos de Villagran Cabrita and was reported to be his best student.

[2] Upon the outbreak of the Paraguayan War, Bruguez participated in the Capture of the steamer Marquês de Olinda, directly ramming his artillery batteries against the ship which caused it to capsize.

[3] He then participated in the Battle of Riachuelo and would harass the Imperial Brazilian Navy with his artillery, managing to kill 12 men.

He continued his service during the Corrientes campaign during the Battle of Paso de Mercedes where he attempted to block the Imperial Brazilian Navy from passing the Paraná River.