Football rally in Peru leaves one dead and dozens injured

Football Rally in Peru Leaves One Fan Dead and Dozens Injured

A fan was killed and multiple others injured during a pre-match gathering at a football rivalry event in Lima, Peru. The incident occurred before a clash between Alianza Lima and their local opponents, Universitario de Deportes. Despite initial claims of structural damage, authorities have since clarified that the stadium’s southern stands remained intact.

Discrepancies in Reports

Peruvian Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero confirmed the fatality at a Lima hospital, stating that 47 people were affected, three in critical condition. However, fire chief Marcos Pajuelo refuted early accounts of a wall collapse, asserting that “no walls or sections fell into the pit.” The event proceeded as scheduled, with the football league emphasizing its dedication to fan safety.

“There are no collapsed walls or sections fallen into the pit,” said fire chief Marcos Pajuelo.

The interior ministry initially reported that 40 firefighters were deployed to rescue individuals trapped in the stadium’s structure. Alianza Lima, the home team, later issued a statement on X to contradict this, noting that the incident was “not related to the collapse of walls or structural facilities.” The league reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of spectators, as it prepares to address the incident in its ongoing investigation.