A tragic incident ahead of a local football derby in Lima, Peru, has left one fan dead and dozens injured.
Authorities are currently investigating the cause. While initial reports suggested collapse of stadium walls or structures, this claim has been contested.
Peruvian Health Minister, Juan Carlos Velasco Guerrero, confirmed the fatality at a Lima hospital and said 47 people were injured, with three in critical condition.
The incident occurred as hundreds of supporters gathered outside Alejandro Villanueva Stadium, dressed in Alianza Lima shirts and waving team flags ahead of the highly anticipated clash against rivals Universitario de Deportes.
Fire Chief Marcos Pajuelo told reporters that the stadium’s southern stands appeared intact.
“There are no collapsed walls or sections fallen into the pit,” he said.
Despite the incident, the Peruvian Professional Football League announced that Saturday night’s match will proceed as scheduled.
Earlier, the interior ministry stated on X that 40 firefighters had responded to an emergency at the stadium “involving people trapped in a structure.”
Alianza Lima later clarified on X that, “According to the preliminary information available, the incident is not related to the collapse of walls or structural facilities of the sports complex.”
The league emphasized in a statement that authorities are examining the circumstances of the gathering and reaffirmed its “commitment to the safety and well-being of all attendees at sporting events.”
