Peruvian football player José Hugo de la Cruz Meza lost his life after being struck by lightning during a match on Sunday. One of his teammates was also seriously injured, reports Mundo Deportivo.
The 34-year-old athlete took part in a match between Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca in Chicha (Peru). A storm hit the city and the meeting was suspended as a precaution. But a few seconds after this announcement, lightning struck the group of players returning to the locker room.
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Four other players hospitalized
José Hugo de la Cruz Meza was taken to hospital, along with four other players. The defender's death was unfortunately pronounced after his arrival at the hospital. Goalkeeper Juan Chocca was also treated for very serious burns and remains in serious condition.
As for the three other injured people, they also received treatment, but are in stable condition. Erick Estiven Ccente Cuyllor, Josep Gustavo P. and Cristian César Pituy Cahuana, aged 16 to 24, must remain under observation, hospital staff said.
A security protocol to put in place
The drama was filmed by several spectators and the images were broadcast on social networks. In particular, we can see the players lying on the ground after the lightning struck. This event provoked many reactions, as Info Bae explains. While some gave their support to the families of the victims, others wondered about the rules to put in place to avoid this type of event.
“What happened in Chilca reminds us that we need safety protocols. We cannot expose players and the public to these risks,” wrote one user. For their part, local authorities are also questioning the subject. Despite his injuries, the goalkeeper was able to express himself and says he is grateful to still be alive.
