In brief
In a shocking turn of events, a Peruvian soccer game was interrupted by a lightning strike that tragically cost a player's life.
It was an ordinary Sunday in Huancayo, Peru, as local soccer teams C.D. Juventud Bellavista and U.D. Familia Chocca faced off in a regional tournament. However, the match took a devastating turn when lightning struck the field, resulting in the death of player José Hugo De la Cruz Meza. The match had already been paused due to an approaching storm, but players were headed off the field when the lightning strike occurred. Disturbing footage captured the moment, as a bright flash of light caused several players to collapse to the ground. José Hugo De la Cruz Meza was taken to the hospital, where he was tragically pronounced dead. In addition, four other players sustained injuries and were later hospitalized, though they have since been discharged. One of the injured players, Juan Chocca, shared his harrowing experience with local media, recounting how he and José were embracing just moments before the strike. "I took three steps after letting go of him, and the lightning struck us," he stated. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unforeseen dangers that accompany outdoor activities during storms.
