(MENAFN) FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his deepest condolences on Sunday after a devastating stampede claimed the lives of 12 people at a stadium in El Salvador. The incident occurred during a local football tournament, where fans had gathered to watch a match between Alianza and FAS teams.
Initial reports from authorities suggest that the tragedy unfolded as fans attempted to enter Cuscatlan Stadium in the capital city of San Salvador. The sheer volume of people resulted in a crush, leading to the loss of lives. The match had to be suspended as emergency personnel worked swiftly to evacuate individuals from the premises. Hundreds of police officers and soldiers were present at the scene, their efforts accompanied by the sound of ambulance sirens.
Carlos Fuentes, a spokesperson for the emergency services group Comandos de Salvamento, disclosed that over 500 people received medical attention following the stampede. Approximately 100 individuals, in critical condition, were transported to hospitals, with signs of asphyxia and other forms of trauma evident among them. According to police reports, at least two of the injured victims are in critical condition.
In light of this tragic incident, FIFA, alongside the global football community, expressed their solidarity with those affected. President Infantino, in a statement, conveyed heartfelt thoughts and prayers to the victims and their families. He extended his support to the people of El Salvador, the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf), the Salvadoran Football Association, and the Primera Division de Futbol de El Salvador during this difficult period.
The stampede was believed to have been triggered by a falling stadium gate, which caused people to become tightly packed together. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident, the focus remains on providing support and consolation to those affected by this devastating loss of life.
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