A tragic incident occurred during a soccer match in Peru when one player lost his life and several others were injured after being struck by lightning.
Jose Hugo de la Cruz Meza, aged 39, played as a defender in a local match between Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca. The game was taking place at the Coto Coto stadium in Chilca, located in the central region of Huancayo, when stormy weather hit the field.
The match was halted after 22 minutes due to the poor weather conditions. However, shortly after the suspension around 4pm local time, a lightning bolt struck the pitch.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) states that the probability of being struck by lightning in a given year in the US is less than one in a million.
Although most lightning strike victims, about 90 percent, survive, Jose was tragically killed instantly when the bolt hit him.
The CDC highlights that engaging in outdoor activities can elevate the risk of lightning strikes. Authorities suspect a metal bracelet worn by Jose might have played a role in attracting the strike.
Cesar Ramos, responsible for civil defense in the area, commented: “It was like a magnet.”
The lightning strike affected more than just Jose; video footage reveals at least eight players collapsing to the ground when the bright flash occurred.
Goalkeeper Juan Chocca Llacta was among those injured and was taken to the hospital for treatment of severe burns, according to The Telegraph.
According to PEOPLE, Llacta was reported by state news agency Andina to be in stable condition, with signs of improvement.
Three others, including two teenagers aged 14 and 16 and a 24-year-old man, were also hospitalized following the incident and are reportedly stable.
Players not directly struck by the lightning hurried off the field after the event.
The match was completely canceled due to the tragedy, and images later showed burn marks on the field near where the players were struck.
Lucho Duarte, an engineer who shared the footage of the lightning strike, advocated for enhanced safety measures during adverse weather.
“This terrible incident highlights the crucial need for protection against lightning, especially at outdoor events,” he posted online.
“We must implement protective systems in sports facilities and enforce protocols for the immediate suspension of activities during storms.”