Lightning Strike Kills Player During Soccer Match in Peru

A lightning strike during a local league soccer match in central Peru has resulted in the tragic death of one player and injuries to four others.

The incident occurred on Sunday at Coto Coto stadium in Chilca, located approximately 70 kilometers southeast of Lima.

Footage from the match revealed players leaving the pitch after the game was paused due to worsening weather conditions. As the storm intensified, several players were seen collapsing face-first onto the ground when lightning struck the field.

A brief flash and a small cloud of smoke were reported near one of the players, as shown in a broadcast by local TV station Onda Deportiva Huancavelica.

The deceased player was identified as 39-year-old defender Hugo De La Cruz, who was struck during the 22nd minute of the match between local teams Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca.

The local municipality expressed condolences in a statement, saying, “We join in solidarity and extend our sincere condolences to the family of young Hugo De La Cruz, who lost his life after being struck by lightning while being taken to the hospital. We also wish a speedy recovery to the four other players injured in this tragic accident.”

As of Monday evening, two of the injured players had been released from the hospital, while two others remained under observation.

One goalkeeper injured in the incident was reported to be in critical condition but showed signs of improvement.

Lightning strikes can result in severe injuries or fatalities, though the chance of being struck is less than one in a million, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Despite the dangers, nearly 90% of lightning strike victims survive, often facing serious long-term health issues.