Football player killed by lightning strike in Peru
A football player was killed by a lighting strike during a local match in central Peru on Sunday.
Video footage of the match showed players walking off the field at Coto Coto stadium in Lima, after the game had been paused due to a storm. After what appeared to be a lightning strike, several players fell to the ground and were seen struggling to get back up. Following checks, one casualty was confirmed.
According to a report from CNN News, the deceased player was identified by authorities and state media as defender Hugo De La Cruz, 39.
“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,” the local municipality said a statement. “We also express our support and wishes for a speedy recovery to the other four players injured in this tragic accident.”
The CNN report also said that as of Monday evening, two players had been discharged from the hospital, while two remain under observation including a goalkeeper who is said to be in critical condition.
The chance of being struck is less than one in a million, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).