Lima, Peru – A tragic incident unfolded during a local football match in Peru last weekend when a lightning strike killed one player and injured four others.
As reported by CNN on November 6th, the incident occurred in Chilca, approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Lima. The match was disrupted by a storm, and as players were leaving the field, a bolt of lightning struck the ground.
Local television station Ondas Deportivas Huancavélica captured the moment the lightning struck. Several players were seen falling to the ground, with a flash of light and a small plume of smoke observed near one player. After a few seconds, some players attempted to get up.
The deceased player has been identified as 39-year-old defender Hugo de la Cruz. In a statement, local authorities expressed their deepest condolences to the family, confirming that de la Cruz had unfortunately passed away while being transported to the hospital. Two of the injured players have been discharged, while two others remain hospitalized.
Lightning strikes can cause severe injuries and fatalities. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the chance of being struck by lightning is less than one in a million. While approximately 90% of victims survive, they may experience long-term effects such as seizures and memory loss.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of playing sports during severe weather conditions.
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