Colombian footballers killed by lightning

Four female footballers tragically lost their lives after being struck by lightning while sheltering under a tree during a storm.

The incident happened during a football tournament in Cajibío, Colombia.

A man who was with them also died in the hospital from his injuries. Two other women suffered severe burns and are currently receiving medical treatment.

The heartbreaking event has shocked the local football community, with tributes pouring in for the victims. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the tragedy as communities mourn the loss of the young athletes and offer support to the injured survivors.

The victims have been identified as Jeidy Morales, Daniela Mosquera, Luz Lame, and Etelvina Mosquera.

“Four women lost their lives in the El Real village, Casas Bajas district, in the municipality of Cajibío, Cauca, while participating in a women’s football match in the area. A heavy downpour with a thunderstorm struck, and lightning hit a group of people.

The victims were identified as Jeidy Daneisy Morales, Daniela Yinet Mosquera, Luz Eneida Lame, and Etelvina Mosquera, residents of the Piedras Negras village. Two others, Juliana Mosquera and Jhorman Mosquera, were injured and have been taken to the Cajibío hospital for treatment”,  Cauca Hoy, a Colombian report posted on Facebook, on Sunday 9 February, 2025.

Initial reports suggested that the players had taken refuge in a pitchside shed, but government spokesperson Lesly Valencia clarified that the lightning struck a tree under which the group was sheltering.

“The information I have is 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 incident has sent shockwaves through the local community and the wider football world, highlighting the dangers of severe weather conditions during outdoor activities.

Authorities have urged caution during storms, emphasizing the importance of seeking safe and enclosed shelters to avoid such tragedies.

The football community mourns the loss of these young athletes, and condolences have poured in for their families and loved ones during this heartbreaking time.

Source: The Mirror