Football rally in Peru leaves one dead and dozens injured

Football Rally in Peru Leaves One Fan Dead and Dozens Injured

A tragic event occurred during a pre-match gathering for a local football derby in Lima, Peru, resulting in the death of one fan and multiple injuries. The incident disrupted the planned match between Alianza Lima and Universitario de Deportes, sparking immediate concern among officials. Investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the chaos.

Hundreds of supporters had assembled at Alejandro Villanueva Stadium, donning jerseys of their home team and displaying banners. The crowd’s excitement reportedly led to overcrowding, though the cause of the collapse remains under scrutiny. Peruvian Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero confirmed the fatality at a Lima hospital, stating that 47 individuals were affected, with three in critical condition.

“Currently, there are no collapsed walls or sections that have fallen into the pit,” stated Fire Chief Marcos Pajuelo, addressing concerns about structural failure. His remarks contradict early reports of a stadium wall collapse, which have since been challenged by authorities.

The Peruvian Professional Football League announced that the Saturday night match would proceed as scheduled, emphasizing their dedication to ensuring safety for spectators. However, the interior ministry initially reported that 40 firefighters had responded to an emergency involving people trapped in a structure, raising questions about the event’s cause.

Alianza Lima later clarified the situation, stating on X that the incident was unrelated to any collapse of the stadium’s walls or structural components. The league reiterated its commitment to safety, urging transparency in the investigation while acknowledging the gravity of the situation.