Lightning strike kills footballer during live match in Peru

A lightning strike during a local football match in Chilca, Peru, tragically killed one player and critically injured several others.

The incident occurred on Sunday during a match between C.D. Juventud Bellavista and U.D. Familia Chocca at the Coto Coto stadium.

The strike hit during a heavy rainstorm in the 22nd minute of the match, as players were returning to their pavilions.

Disturbing footage of the incident, which was captured live on television, showed several players collapsing to the ground after the lightning hit. The video quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread attention to the tragic event.

Hugo De La Cruz, a 39-year-old defender, was pronounced dead while being transported to the hospital.

The other players affected by the strike were hospitalized with varying injuries. Four players, including a goalkeeper, were reported to have been injured. Two of them were discharged after receiving treatment, while the other two remained in the hospital for further observation.

The local municipality expressed its condolences in a statement, saying, “We join in solidarity and extend our sincere condolences to the family of young Hugo De La Cruz, who, after being struck by lightning, tragically lost his life while being taken to the hospital. We also express our support and wish for a speedy recovery to the other four players injured in this tragic accident.”