Tragedy Strikes in Huancayo, Peru

In a devastating event that shocked the sports community, a 39-year-old soccer player was tragically killed by a lightning strike while playing a match over the weekend in Huancayo, Peru. José Hugo De la Cruz Meza, a defender for the Chocca Family team, was struck down during a live streaming of the game at the Coto Coto stadium.

Incident Details

Witnesses reported that the incident occurred as players and match officials were heading off the field due to an impending storm. De la Cruz was hit just moments after he and several teammates had started walking off, resulting in an immediate and tragic end to his life. He was pronounced dead on arrival at a local hospital, leaving the soccer community in mourning.

Shocking Video Footage

The shocking video footage captures a brief moment of normalcy as players walk together before a sudden flash engulfs De la Cruz. Within moments, he and several others collapse, while goalkeeper Juan Chocca Llacta, who is also De la Cruz's cousin, suffered severe injuries but ultimately survived. Alongside him, three additional players were treated for burns.

Testimony from Juan Chocca

Juan Chocca shared his harrowing experience with Peru's Daily Mail, recalling how he and De la Cruz had their arms around each other just before the strike. “I let go of him, we took three steps and the lightning hit us. I felt a flash of light in my head and my mind went blank,” he recounted. "I’m thankful to be alive.”

Community Response

In the aftermath, local authorities and community members came together for De la Cruz's wake, displaying his scorched uniform next to his coffin as a powerful memorial. The family is now facing a difficult future, with De la Cruz's wife left to care for their three young children alone. They have turned to local institutions for financial support, emphasizing the urgent need for assistance during this extremely challenging time.

Reflection and Future Safety

This tragic incident not only highlights the unpredictable nature of life but also serves as a reminder of the unforeseen dangers that can strike even in the most routine of situations. The soccer community in Peru joins in solidarity with the family of José Hugo De la Cruz, mourning his untimely death and hoping for improved safety measures in outdoor sports.