A tragic incident unfolded at a Mexican election campaign rally in San Pedro Garza Garcia on Wednesday, as a stage collapsed due to high winds, claiming the lives of nine people and leaving dozens injured. The rally, organized by the Citizens’ Movement party in Nuevo Leon, turned into chaos as the large structure crumbled, sending politicians and attendees scrambling for safety.
Governor Samuel Garcia confirmed that at least 63 individuals were injured, with eight adults and one child losing their lives in the tragic accident. Many of the injured were rushed to local clinics for treatment, while three individuals underwent surgery at a nearby hospital.
Presidential candidate Jorge Alvarez Maynez, who was present at the rally, described the sudden gust of wind that led to the stage collapse. He expressed shock at the rapid turn of events and called for a thorough investigation into the incident, emphasizing the need for transparency.
Campaign activities were immediately suspended, and efforts were made to support those impacted by the tragedy. Members of Mexico’s national guard and army were deployed to provide assistance, while Governor Garcia urged residents to stay indoors due to severe weather conditions in the area.
As the country mourns the loss of lives, leading presidential candidates Claudia Sheinbaum and Xochitl Galvez extended their condolences to the victims’ families. Sheinbaum canceled a planned rally in Monterrey as a mark of respect for the victims of the tragic incident. The upcoming presidential election on June 2 continues amidst the somber aftermath of the rally disaster.