A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday, November 3, 2024, when a lightning strike during a football match in Peru resulted in one fatality and multiple injuries. José Hugo de la Cruz Meza, a 39-year-old defender, was tragically killed when lightning hit just as players were leaving the field because of worsening weather.
Details of the Incident
The tragedy took place around 4 PM local time at the Coto Coto Stadium in Chilca, located in the Huancayo region. During a regional tournament match between Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca, the referee had just called off the game when the lightning struck. 
The Mirror reported, “at least eight players including Jose and the seriously-injured goalie ended up on the ground.” Juan Chocca Llacta, 40, the goalkeeper, was also struck and rushed to the hospital with severe burns. Fortunately, he is now in stable condition.
Two teenagers, aged 16 and 19 (Erick Estiven Ccente Cuyllor), and a 24-year-old named Cristian Cesar Pituy Cahuana, were also injured but are stable in the hospital.
Eyewitness Accounts
Footage from the match captured the moment players were walking toward the changing rooms when the storm worsened. Sadly, José was seen struck by lightning and falling face-first to the ground just moments after play was halted.
According to The New York Times, Juan Chocca, who is also the brother-in-law of José De la Cruz Meza, shared his experience following the incident. He explained that he was walking alongside José, and after they embraced, he took a few steps before being struck by lightning.
Chocca described the sensation of a bright flash hitting his head, causing his mind to go blank.
He then lost consciousness and later regained awareness, finding himself attached to various medical equipment.
José was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. Local reports suggest that the lightning may have struck him because he was wearing a metal bracelet, which acted like a magnet, according to César Ramos, manager of the Civil Defense in the area.
The football community is mourning the loss of José Hugo de la Cruz Meza. Many hope this tragedy will lead to better awareness and safety measures to protect players during storms in the future.
Watch the video here:
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