Tragedy in Mexico as strong winds topple stage at campaign rally, 9 dead and dozens hurt
- More than 60 hurt as stage collapses at campaign event for Mexican presidential candidate
- Campaign events are being held this week and next in anticipation of the June 2 elections
A strong gust of wind toppled the stage at a campaign rally Wednesday evening in the northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon, killing at least nine people – including a child – and injuring 63, the state’s governor said.
The collapse occurred during an event attended by presidential long-shot candidate Jorge Alvarez Maynez, who ran to escape. Videos of the collapse on social media showed people screaming, running away and climbing out from under metal polls.
The victims “will not be alone in this tragedy,” Maynez told reporters Wednesday night, adding that he had suspended upcoming campaign events.
Afterward, soldiers, police and other officials roamed the grounds of the park where the event took place while many nearby sat stunned and haunted by the tragedy.
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said he “sends a hug to family members, friends of the victims and political supporters”. Condolences poured in from across Mexico, including by other presidential candidates.
In a video message, Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia, a leading member of Maynez’s Citizens Movement party, asked residents to shelter in their houses for the next two hours. He provided the death toll of at least five and dozens injured.