Tragic Lightning Strike Claims Life During Football Match in Peru
A lightning strike during an amateur football match in Peru resulted in the death of one player and injuries to five others. The incident occurred on November 3, 2024, at the Coto Coto stadium in Chilca, Huancayo, when a storm prompted the referee to suspend the match. As players were heading to the locker room, a bolt of lightning struck the pitch, knocking several players to the ground.
The victim, 39-year-old defender José Hugo de la Cruz Meza, was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. Goalkeeper Juan Chocca Llacta, aged 42, sustained severe burns and is currently in critical condition. The remaining injured players, aged between 16 and 24, suffered minor injuries and were also treated at Daniel Alcides Carrión National Hospital. Video footage of the incident captured the shocking moment the lightning struck, showcasing the immediate chaos that ensued on the field.
Urgent Calls for Safety Measures Following the Incident
In light of this tragic event, local authorities have urged sports organizers to implement better safety measures during adverse weather conditions. An orange alert had been issued for Lima and 15 other regions, warning of potential dangerous weather. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with playing outdoor sports during storms, prompting discussions about the need for improved protocols to protect players from similar incidents in the future.
