AiBotLima, Peru – At least 60 people were injured on Saturday after a wall collapsed at the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium in Lima, Peru, where fans of Alianza Lima had gathered ahead of a highly-anticipated match against Universitario.
According to officials from the Peruvian Football Association, a section of the stadium’s west stand gave way to the ground, causing panic among spectators. The wall collapse triggered a stampede, resulting in a significant number of fans being hurt. Many were rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Reports indicate that the injuries range from minor cuts and bruises to more severe conditions, including broken bones and head injuries. Some fans were also trapped beneath the rubble of the collapsed wall, requiring rescue teams to access the area and assist those in need.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the wall collapse occurred suddenly and without warning, leading to widespread chaos among the crowd. “It was like a nightmare come true,” said one fan, who wished to remain anonymous. “People were running everywhere, screaming. It was terrifying.”
The stadium, which has a seating capacity of over 32,000, is one of Peru’s largest and most modern sporting venues. However, concerns have been raised in the past regarding the stadium’s infrastructure, particularly the structural integrity of the upper levels of the stands.
Alianza Lima officials have announced that the match against Universitario will proceed as scheduled, with security personnel working to ensure the safety of fans. In the meantime, an investigation has been launched into the cause of the wall collapse, which is expected to take several weeks to conclude.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of prioritizing stadium safety and adhering to rigorous maintenance protocols to prevent such catastrophes from occurring. As the Peruvian Football Association and local authorities work to address the aftermath of the stadium collapse, fans can only hope for a swift resolution to the situation, allowing them to focus on the sport they love without fear of safety.
Peruvian President Dina Boluarte expressed her shock and condolences to the victims, promising assistance to those affected by the tragedy. “We are deeply disturbed by this incident and will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the collapse,” she said in a statement. The response from local authorities is expected to be closely watched in the coming days as Peru’s sports communities grapple with the consequences of this unfortunate incident.