Tragedy in Mexico: Young soccer player dies after being stuck by lightning

Leonardo Gómez Garduño, a young Mexican soccer player, tragically passed away at just 16 years old after being struck by lightning. He spent several days in intensive care fighting for his life before succumbing to his injuries.

(Photo: Instagram / @leogomezgar)

The event occurred on July 28 during a soccer match between the teams Spartak Deportivo Cuernavaca (Leonardo's team) and Esferitas Venados, in the Antonio Barona neighborhood of the capital of the state of Morelos, according to Infobae.

Lightning struck the field where Leonardo's game was being played. Gregorio Yáñez Pineda, the Spartak team coach, explained that 'the lightning that hit several players, including Leo, was the first to strike before the electrical storm broke out,' reports Aristegui Noticias.

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As reported by El Heraldo de México, five young people were injured by the lightning strike, including Leonardo, who was hospitalized in serious condition in Mexico City.

Leonardo suffered cellular and organic burns, as his aunt Claudia González reported to the newspaper El Financiero. The young man had injuries to his heart, nervous system, and kidneys.

According to El Financiero, on July 31, the young soccer player underwent brain surgery that lasted more than 10 hours, as reported by his family on an Instagram account.

Leonardo Gómez's relatives invited fans and followers to participate in prayer for the player's health. They have also provided ways to raise financial funds for his treatment.

(Photo: Instagram / @leogomezgar)

On Sunday, August 4, Leonardo's relatives announced the young player's death with the following message on Instagram: "Today at 12:01, Leo Gómez made the best play and scored the best goal of his life. We thank you very much for your prayers. Let us honor his life."

On Facebook, Antonio Barona United Clubs League published: "With deep sadness and pain, we inform you that today Leo passed away. This terrible news leaves a big hole in our hearts. This young man taught us what love for our neighbor is, what faith can do, and that we can achieve great things together."

(Photo: Facebook)

"Leo, we were not fortunate enough to meet you in person, but you know what? We are going to miss you more than you can imagine. You opened our eyes and showed us that love is a fundamental part of this journey called life. Fly high, champion," shared the League in a statement.

(Photo: Instagram / @leogomezgar)

According to National Geographic, approximately 240,000 people are struck by lightning each year. Estimates of annual lightning-related deaths vary widely: one study suggests around 6,000 deaths per year, while another estimates up to 24,000.

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