A Peruvian football player died and many people were injured when he was struck by lightning during a match played over the weekend. And in the wake of the tragedy, some are calling for enhanced safety protocols.
The incident occurred in the Chilca region of Huancayo province during a regional tournament between two local teams, Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca. Defender Jose Hugo de la Cruz Meza (39) died, while goalkeeper Juan Chocca Llacta (40) was struck by a direct blow and was taken to a local hospital with serious burns. A total of eight players were knocked down and three other players, aged 16, 19 and 24, were injured but were in a stable condition.
With 22 minutes left in the match, Juventud Bellavista was ahead 2-0.
Accordingly TelegramAuthorities believe De La Cruz Meza may have been attracted to the lightning due to the metal bracelet she was wearing at the time. “It was like a magnet,” said Cesar Ramos, the district's chief of civil defense. It was later reported that burn marks were photographed on the field near where the players were shot.
Warning, images may be disturbing to some viewers:
(1/4) ⚡️ Tragedy in Huancayo, Chilca: A light in the life of a football player who also met others during a party. Our condolences to the families and families. 🙏 #Huancayo #Çılca #rayos pic.twitter.com/Wu3FqotNK4
— Lucho Duarte (@luchitobass) November 4, 2024
In the wake of the tragedy, there have been calls for better security efforts, especially in high-altitude places like Huancayo, where the capital is 3,659 feet above sea level. Earlier this year, another 35-year-old football player died after getting stuck during a match in Indonesia.
Lucho Duarte, the engineer who shot the image and posted it online, talked about the need for better security measures in a series of social media posts.
“This unfortunate incident reminds us of the importance of lightning protection, especially during outdoor activities,” Duarte wrote. “Implement lightning rod systems at sports facilities. Establish safety protocols that include suspension of activities in the event of a storm. Educate the public on protection measures.”
“As professionals we must promote a culture of prevention and ensure safety in open spaces,” he added.