Mexico rejoiced following their 2-0 victory over Ecuador on Tuesday night, marking their first advancement to the World Cup knockout stages in 40 years. However, the jubilant street celebrations in Mexico City, which drew thousands, took a somber turn when three individuals tragically died from asphyxiation, according to Reuters.
Early Wednesday morning, Mexico City’s Health Ministry confirmed that a 44-year-old man, a 48-year-old woman, and a 19-year-old woman lost their lives on the Paseo de la Reforma, near the Angel of Independence monument. This popular gathering spot was where fireworks were set off following the match.
The Mayor of Mexico City, Clara Brugada, extended her condolences to the victims’ families via X and implored everyone to “always celebrate with responsibility, caution, and empathy.” Numerous other individuals required medical attention.
These were not the first fatalities linked to World Cup celebrations in Mexico. The previous week, a driver who struck and injured 17 people was severely beaten by an angry crowd and later died in the hospital.