Tragedy struck the Peruvian football community as a lightning strike during a match between Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca claimed the life of 34-year-old defender Hugo de la Cruz. The incident occurred in the city of Chilca, located in the Huancayo province, a high-altitude region in the Peruvian Andes.
The match was underway at the Coto Coto stadium when lightning struck, sending eight players to the ground. Play had been suspended after initial strikes, but a subsequent lightning bolt caused the fatal incident.
De la Cruz, a defender for Familia Chocca, was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to his injuries en route. Four other players were injured, with goalkeeper Juan Chocca in critical condition but showing signs of recovery.
Authorities in Huancayo confirmed de la Cruz’s passing and expressed their condolences to his family. “We join in solidarity and extend our sincere condolences to the family of young Hugo De La Cruz, who, after being struck by lightning, unfortunately lost his life while being taken to the hospital,” a statement read.
Local news agency Andina reported that two of the injured players were discharged from the hospital, while Chocca and another player remained under care.
Chocca, who was hugging de la Cruz at the time of the strike, described the harrowing experience. “I felt a flash of light; I felt it reach my head, and my mind went white,” he told La Republica.
Lightning strikes are common in the South American mountains, but the fatality during a football match has sent shockwaves through the community. Studies by the American Centre for Disease Control (CDC) indicate that approximately 90% of humans struck by lightning survive the encounter.
The tragedy has raised concerns about safety measures at football matches in high-altitude regions. Authorities are investigating the incident and considering additional precautions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
