A 39-year-old Peruvian soccer player was killed instantly by lightning Sunday during a local league match in Huancayo, moments after officials suspended play due to the storms.
Jose Hugo de la Cruz Meza, a defender for Familia Chocca, was struck at Coto Coto stadium in Chilca while players were leaving the field just moments after officials stopped the match against Juventud Bellavista in the 22nd minute.
“It was like a magnet,” said Cesar Ramos, the region’s civil defense chief, suggesting a metal bracelet worn by de la Cruz Meza may have attracted the strike.
Footage showed at least eight players dropping to the ground after a flash of light, with goalkeeper Juan Chocca Llacta suffering severe burns. Three others were injured: two teenagers aged 14 and 16, and a 24-year-old man. All are in stable condition except Chocca Llacta, who remains critical.
Local engineer Lucho Duarte, who captured the strike on camera, called for new safety measures including lightning rod systems.
Warning: This video is extremely graphic —
CRAZY https://t.co/HuhNfRjueQ
— The Horn News (@ReadTheHornNews) November 4, 2024