SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — Two fans died on Thursday before the start of a Copa Libertadores match between the host Colo Colo and Fortaleza of Brazil near Santiago’s estadio Monumental, a local prosecutor said.
According to authorities, a group of fans attempted to force their way into the stadium and tore down one of the venue’s protective fences. The victims were reportedly trapped beneath them.
The match was later suspended in the 70th minute due to unruly fans, although it was not immediately clear if it was related to the earlier deaths.
The Eastern Flagrancy Prosecutor, Francisco Morales said that a group of fans tried to access the estadio Monumental through the Casa Alba, a building adjacent to the venue and the police tried to prevent them from entering.
“A stampede ensued, resulting in the collapse of a fence,” added Morales. “We are currently investigating whether a police vehicle was involved in the death.”
Authorities said one of the persons died at the scene and the other at a nearby medical clinic.
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AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer
Nayara Batschke And José Manuel Valladares, The Associated Press
