Lightning strikes and causes the death of a footballer, also leaves other players injured

In a regrettable event, Peruvian football was plunged into mourning last Sunday, November 3, when lightning struck in the middle of a match, causing the death of player José Hugo de la Cruz Meza and seriously injuring goalkeeper Juan Choca, along with other affected footballers. The incident occurred at the Coto Coto stadium, in Chicha, Huancayo, while the match between Juventud Bellavista and Familia Chocca was being played.

The match was taking place under heavy rain, and around 4:00 p.m. local time, the weather conditions forced the game to be suspended. The players were beginning to leave the field when a lightning bolt struck unexpectedly, causing several of them to collapse at the same time.

Defender José Hugo de la Cruz Meza, 39, died after being struck by lightning, while goalkeeper Juan Choca was reported to have severe burns and in critical condition.

Other injured players were identified as Erick Estiven Cente Cuyllor, 19; a minor of 16 years, Josep Gustavo P. Ch.; and Cristian César Pituy Cahuana, 24 years old.

César Ramos, manager of Civil Defense of the municipality of Chilca, reported that a metal bracelet that de la Cruz was wearing could have attracted the lightning bolt, describing it as a "magnet" that triggered the tragedy.

A first bolt of lightning had previously struck near the field, which led to the suspension of the match, but it was the second impact that hit the players as they were leaving.