3 dead in Mexico City during World Cup festivities

Mexico was swept up in joy after securing a place in the World Cup round of 16. However, the night of celebration turned into a night of grief. The death toll from the incident during World Cup celebrations in Mexico City has risen to three. According to Reuters, the city’s health department confirmed the information early Wednesday morning.

The deaths occurred near the Angel of Independence, a well-known landmark in Mexico City, where thousands of fans had gathered to celebrate Mexico’s 2-0 victory over Ecuador. The main avenue, Paseo de la Reforma, and surrounding areas were closed to traffic for the celebrations.

Authorities said three people lost consciousness at different points on Paseo de la Reforma and received emergency medical care. Initially, the health department reported via social media that a 44-year-old man and a 19-year-old woman died despite high-level CPR and resuscitation efforts.

In a later statement, the health department announced that the third victim was a 48-year-old woman who was suffering from breathing difficulties, received treatment on a nearby street, and later died after being taken to a hospital.

Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada expressed condolences to the families of the deceased on X and called on everyone to celebrate with responsibility, caution, and solidarity at all times.

Mexico tasted victory in the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 40 years. As co-hosts, they defeated Ecuador at the Azteca Stadium in the capital to advance to the round of 16. Scenes of fans’ excitement, chants, and celebrations spread on social media, along with images of people receiving medical attention on nearby streets after falling ill.

Mexico City’s metropolitan area, home to more than 20 million people, is one of the world’s most densely populated regions, where large celebrations and massive crowds are relatively common.