A local soccer match in central Peru turned deadly on Sunday when a lightning strike killed one player and injured four others.
Game Paused Due to Storm, Lightning Strikes
During the match at Coto Coto Stadium in Chilca, about 70 kilometers southeast of Lima, players began leaving the field due to an approaching storm. Video footage captured the moment lightning struck, sending several players to the ground. A brief spark and a small puff of smoke were visible near one player, as shown in footage aired on local channel Onda Deportiva Huancavelic.
Defender Hugo De La Cruz Identified as Victim
The lightning strike claimed the life of 39-year-old defender Hugo De La Cruz during the 22nd minute of the game between Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca. Authorities and state media confirmed his identity and reported he died en route to the hospital. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Hugo De La Cruz,” the local municipality stated, adding support and best wishes for the recovery of the four injured players.
Injured Players in Hospital, Goalkeeper in Critical Condition
By Monday evening, two of the injured players had been discharged, while two others remained under observation, according to state news agency Andina. Among those still hospitalized was a goalkeeper in critical condition, although he had shown signs of improvement.
Lightning Strikes Rare but Potentially Fatal
While lightning strikes are rare, with a chance of less than one in a million according to the CDC, they can cause severe, long-lasting injuries. Nearly 90% of lightning strike victims survive, though many endure serious effects like burns, seizures, and memory loss.
2020 Incident: Russian Teen Goalkeeper Struck by Lightning
A similar incident occurred in 2020 when a 16-year-old Russian goalkeeper was struck by lightning during practice. The young athlete suffered severe burns and was placed in a coma, but he made an impressive recovery weeks later.
