#e!#Farandulagringa –
Peru is mourning the death of a soccer star.
José Hugo de la Cruz Meza, a defender for Familia Chocca, died Nov. 3 after being struck by lightning along with other players during a match against Juventud Bellavista at Coto Coto stadium in Chilca, Peru, local officials confirmed. He was 39.
“We join in solidarity and extend our sincere condolences to the family of young Hugo De La Cruz, who, after being struck by lightning, unfortunately, lost his life while being taken to the hospital,” the District Municipality of Chilca wrote in Spanish on Facebook Nov. 3. “We also express our support and wishes for a speedy recovery to the other four players injured in this tragic accident.”
In a clip circulating on social media, José and four others were seemingly walking off the field when lightning struck. A brief spark was seen near one of the players and they immediately collapsed face-first during the televised game.
