Women’s Soccer Game Ends in Tragedy as 4 Players Killed After Being Struck by Lightning: Reports

Four Women Soccer Players Killed by Lightning Strike During Game

In a tragic turn of events, four female soccer players lost their lives after being struck by lightning while playing in Colombia. The devastating incident, which also claimed the life of another man, unfolded during a thunderstorm at a women’s soccer game in the village of El Real, Casas Bajas, in the municipality of Cajibío, Colombia. The occurrence transpired on Sunday, Feb 9, as reported by local newspaper Cauca Hoy and U.K. outlet National World.

The women, along with the male victim, sought shelter from the storm under a tree. Lesly Valencia, a government spokesman, stated to National World that “The women were participating in a football tournament when the emergency occurred. A lightning bolt struck a tree and that was what caused the death of the four women.” The deceased players were identified as Jeidy Daneisy Morales, Daniela Yinet Mosquera, Luz Eneida Lame, and Etelvina Mosquera, hailing from Piedras Negras. Additionally, a man named Jhorman Mosquera, who sustained injuries during the incident, passed away at the San José de Popayán hospital. Two other women suffered severe burns and were promptly taken to the hospital for treatment.

Giovanny Mosquera, the president of the Piedras Negras action board, revealed that the women were partaking in a soccer championship organised by the Cajibo administration, held every Sunday, as reported by Cauca Hoy. Despite cloudy skies, no rainfall was observed during the game, according to Mosquera. The mayor of the municipality, Diana Carolina Cabanillas, expressed her sorrow at the tragedy, as per Cauca Hoy.

Friends of the victims took to social media to mourn their loss, with one tribute reading, “What sad news. Rest in peace Daniela” reported by National World. Authorities were approached for further updates but did not immediately respond. The incident sheds light on the unpredictable and deadly nature of lightning strikes, highlighting the need for safety measures during extreme weather conditions, especially in outdoor sporting events.

Sadly, this is not the first instance of such a tragedy occurring on a sports field. Lightning strikes have been known to cause devastation in various parts of the world, and this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with outdoor activities during inclement weather. As investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the four female players and the man, communities are left mourning the loss of promising young athletes. The impact of this event reverberates beyond the football pitch, underscoring the importance of prioritising safety protocols and precautions in all aspects of life. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims during this difficult time. May they find strength and solace in the face of this tragic loss.