Football rally in Peru leaves one dead and dozens injured
Football rally in Peru leaves one dead and dozens injured
A tragedy unfolded during a pre-derby gathering at the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium in Lima, Peru, where a fan lost their life and multiple others were injured. The Peruvian Professional Football League confirmed the match against local rivals Universitario de Deportes will proceed as scheduled, despite the incident. Initial accounts claimed parts of the stadium’s wall had collapsed, but this claim has been refuted by authorities. The Health Minister, Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero, reported the casualties during a press briefing at a Lima hospital, stating that 47 individuals were affected, with three in critical condition.
Structural integrity remains intact
Fire Chief Marcos Pajuelo told reporters that the southern stands’ structural integrity was not compromised. “There are no collapsed walls or sections that fell into the pit,” he emphasized. However, the interior ministry initially stated that 40 firefighters had responded to an emergency involving people trapped in a structure. Alianza Lima, the home team, later clarified the situation on X, asserting that the incident was unrelated to stadium collapses. The league reiterated its dedication to ensuring the safety of event attendees, as it continues to investigate the circumstances of the rally.
“Confirming the death, Peruvian Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero told media at a Lima hospital that 47 people were hurt – three of which are in a critical condition.”
“Fire Chief Marcos Pajuelo told reporters that the structure of the southern stands appeared to be in good condition.”
Authorities are now examining the cause of the incident, which occurred as hundreds of fans gathered wearing Alianza Lima jerseys and waving team flags. The league’s statement underscored its commitment to the safety and well-being of all spectators, while the conflicting reports highlight ongoing uncertainty about the event’s cause.
