A local football game in Peru turned tragic on Sunday afternoon when a lightning strike hit the field, resulting in the death of 39-year-old player Jose Hugo de la Cruz Meza.
The incident occurred during a match between Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca in Huancayo, central Peru, as a brewing storm prompted the referee to pause the game.
Just moments later, lightning struck the pitch, leading to fatal injuries for de la Cruz Meza and hospitalizing several other players.
Lightning Strike Injures Goalkeeper and Young Players
Goalkeeper Juan Chocca Llacta, aged 40, was directly hit and sustained severe burns.
He was rushed to Daniel Alcides Carrion regional hospital for urgent care.
Two teenage players, aged 14 and 16, along with a 24-year-old named Cristian Cesar Pituy Cahuana, were also injured and taken to the hospital, where they are now reported to be in stable condition.
Dramatic Scene Captured as Lightning Halts Game
Videos shared on social media captured players and staff leaving the field at Coto Coto stadium in Chilca as the storm intensified.
The lightning strike reportedly left around eight players on the ground, and the game, which Juventud Bellavista was leading 2-0, was abandoned immediately.
Controversy Over Safety Measures and High-Altitude Risks
Cesar Ramos, manager of Civil Defense in the region, pointed out that de la Cruz Meza may have been particularly vulnerable due to a metal bracelet he was wearing, which could have acted as a lightning magnet.
Set at a high altitude—over 10,600 feet above sea level—the Huancayo region is known for frequent lightning strikes, sparking calls for stronger safety protocols.
Social media tributes from fans and local officials alike expressed condolences and urged authorities to improve protection, such as adding lightning rods at sports facilities in high-risk areas.
Engineer’s Plea for Better Storm Protocols at Public Events
Engineer Lucho Duarte, who filmed the tragic scene, highlighted the need for better safety practices, including halting outdoor activities during storms and installing lightning protection systems.
Duarte emphasized the critical role these measures could play in preventing future incidents.
Global Call for Awareness After Multiple Fatalities Worldwide
The tragic incident in Peru echoes similar fatalities in football worldwide.
Earlier this year, Indonesian player Septain Raharja died after being struck by lightning during a match, and in December 2023, Brazilian player Caio Henrique de Lima Goncalves also lost his life after a lightning strike hit the pitch.
These incidents underscore the growing calls for robust safety measures at outdoor events, especially in lightning-prone regions.
Moving Forward: Strengthening Safety for Players and Fans Alike
This tragedy has reignited the conversation about player safety in high-altitude regions vulnerable to lightning.
Authorities and sports organizations are urged to prioritize safety, enhancing stadiums with necessary protective equipment and ensuring matches are promptly halted in adverse weather.
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