Fatal Incident Mars Football Rally in Lima
A pre-match gathering for a local football derby in the Peruvian capital, Lima, has resulted in one fatality and 47 injuries, three of whom are in critical condition. The incident occurred outside the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium, where supporters of Alianza Lima had congregated ahead of their match against Universitario de Deportes.
Peruvian Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero confirmed the death and the number of injured at a Lima hospital. However, the exact cause of the incident remains under investigation.
Disputed Collapse Reports
Initial reports circulated suggesting a collapse of stadium walls or structures. This has since been contested by fire officials and the home club, Alianza Lima.
Fire Chief Marcos Pajuelo stated that the structure of the southern stands appeared to be in good condition, asserting, “There are no collapsed walls or sections fallen into the pit.” Alianza Lima also issued a statement via X, indicating that preliminary information suggested the incident was “not related to the collapse of walls or structural facilities of the sports complex.”
Despite the tragedy, Saturday night’s match is scheduled to proceed as planned. The Peruvian Professional Football League has expressed its “commitment to the safety and well-being of all attendees at sporting events” and is cooperating with authorities in their investigation into the circumstances of the rally.