one deceased and dozens of injured in a clash prior to the classic between Universitario and Alianza Lima

Home Sport one deceased and dozens of injured in a clash prior to the classic between Universitario and Alianza Lima
one deceased and dozens of injured in a clash prior to the classic between Universitario and Alianza Lima

What should have been a show of support and enthusiasm from the Alianza Lima fans ended in tragedy. A flag-off organized in the vicinity of the Alejandro Villanueva stadium, prior to the classic against Universitario de Deportes, left one fan dead and at least 60 injured after a human avalanche that generated chaos and despair among attendees.

Preliminary investigations indicate that the incident occurred due to the massive entry of fans into a stand that was already completely full, particularly in the southern sector, traditionally occupied by the team’s brava group. Videos spread on social networks show the moment when a crowd breaks into the place, followed by cries for help and scenes of people trying to escape in the middle of the crowd.

The causes of the incident generated conflicting versions among official organizations. The Peruvian Ministry of Health attributed the incident to the collapse of a stadium wall, while Brigadier Marco Pajuelo, departmental commander of firefighters, denied that version after verifying the facilities. “No structural damage or collapsed walls were found.”said the fire chief, who described the tragedy as a fortuitous event.

Responsibilities and debate

One of the firefighters also pointed to the behavior of the fans themselves as a determining factor in the outcome. “The suddenly angry bar and the moment of revelry made this go further”said the commander, making it clear that the uncontrolled fervor of the sympathizers played a key role in what happened.

The municipal authorities of Lima and the district of La Victoria confirmed that the event did not have the necessary permits or minimum security guarantees, which aggravates the responsibility of the organizers. The presence of children among those attending generated even greater indignation, evidencing the lack of control in a high-risk concentration.

As a result of the crushingone fan lost his life apparently due to asphyxiation, while 47 other people were injured, several with loss of consciousness. Alianza Lima expressed its regret for what happened and assured of collaborating with the investigations, while League 1 decided to maintain the programming of the classic, a decision that has generated debate in the midst of mourning and reflection on security in massive Peruvian soccer events.

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