A 19-year-old woman was among three individuals who tragically lost their lives due to suffocation during World Cup festivities in Mexico City on Tuesday.
The victims also included a 48-year-old woman and a 44-year-old man, as confirmed by the capital’s health authorities on Wednesday.
Over one million people flooded the streets, primarily around the Angel of Independence monument, to celebrate Mexico’s first knockout victory in the World Cup since 1986, according to city officials.
Mayor Clara Brugada extended her heartfelt condolences to the families affected by this tragedy and promised support in the upcoming days.
Emergency services reported that they treated three individuals who were found unconscious at various locations along Paseo de la Reforma before transporting them to local hospitals.
The city’s health authority stated, “After administering first aid and CPR techniques, they were taken to a hospital for specialized medical attention.”
All three individuals were confirmed to have died from suffocation, and their identities were verified by family members.
In a social media message following the announcement of the fatalities, Mayor Brugada urged fans to “celebrate with responsibility, care, and empathy.”
The victory ignited exuberant celebrations at Estadio Azteca and throughout large areas of the city, with fireworks lighting up the sky long after the match concluded.
Before the football game, Brugada had advised fans planning to gather near the Angel of Independence monument to seek alternative locations due to the overwhelming crowds already present.
With over 20 million residents in Mexico City’s metropolitan area, it ranks among the most densely populated regions globally.
Mexico’s win propels them into the World Cup’s round of 16, where they may face England if Thomas Tuchel’s squad secures a victory over DR Congo on Wednesday.
By: Magdalene Agyeiwaa Sarpong