Tragedy Strikes in Peru: Footballer Killed and Multiple Players Injured by Lightning Strike In Match

Though death is unavoidable in life, it is especially felt in society when a football player dies on pitch under unexpected circumstances. Such events spark a lot of conversations about player safety, health procedures, and frailty of life, leaving supporters and or sportsmen dealing with unexpected death and its consequences for someone who is one of fittest individuals on earth.

Also Read: Gavaskar Calls for IND to Reconsider Cancellation of Warm-Up Before BGT

A soccer player in Peru passed away following a lightning strike during a game

On vember 3, in Huancayo, Peru, a football player lost his life and many ors were injured when hit by lightning during a game. José Hugo de la Cruz Meza, 39, athlete who died on pitch, has been identified as a defender. Goalkeeper Juan Choca suffered severe burns and is in a critical state.

Local teams Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca were battling a storm at Coto Coto stadium, at approximately 4:00 PM local time (9:00 PM GMT). A video caught instant lightning hit, sending many players down on ground. video garnered many views on social media as it was shocking to see for many to continue playing a football game in such dangerous wear. 

As participants were leaving field, lightning hit only minutes after referee stopped game because of bad wear. Those wounded were quickly sent to Carrión Hospital in Huancayo, where de la Cruz was declared dead upon arrival. 

Manr of Civil Defence in region, César Ramos told local media that lightning hit de la Cruz apparently because he was wearing a metal bracelet, which may have drawn bolt. "That served like a magnet," he said.

This incident is t unusual; in Junín area in 2014, Joao Contreras of Sport Águila was hit by lightning during a quarterfinal match but survived.