South American football was rocked by a tragedy this Thursday before the Colo-Colo vs Fortaleza match in the Copa Libertadores. Outside the Estadio Monumental David Arellano in Santiago, an incident between fans and the police resulted in the deaths of two young people: a 13-year-old boy and an 18-year-old girl. This event has sparked widespread reactions in Chile and led to drastic measures as the investigation progresses.

Drastic consequences after the death of two fans at Colo-Colo vs Fortaleza

According to the Chilean Prosecutor’s Office, a Carabinero (police officer) has been charged in connection with the tragedy, as his responsibility is being investigated in the collapse of a security fence that caused the fatal stampede. One of the victims died at the scene, while the other passed away after being taken to a nearby clinic. Minister of Public Security, Luis Cordero, confirmed that the officer involved has been removed from duty until the facts are clarified.

“There was a stampede that caused the fence to collapse. At this moment, it is being investigated whether a police vehicle played a role in the deaths,” explained prosecutor Francisco Morales. Although the officer has been formally charged, he has not been arrested due to a lack of conclusive evidence. Witnesses at the scene claim that police repression was excessive, and some fans allege that a water cannon truck may have run over the victims.

Authorities have deployed all available resources to clarify the facts. Surveillance footage and witness testimonies are being reviewed to determine whether there were security failures or excessive use of police force. As an immediate measure, the Chilean government accepted the resignation of Pamela Venegas, head of the Estadio Seguro security program.

Conmebol's reaction and match suspension

Conmebol expressed its condolences through an official statement lamenting the tragedy. Despite the incident, the Colo-Colo vs Fortaleza match started as scheduled. However, as news of the deaths spread, Cacique fans stormed the pitch in protest, leading to the suspension of the match.

"The Conmebol Competitions and Operations Department has announced that, due to the lack of security guarantees from the host club and the authorities, the match is canceled," stated the governing body of South American football.

The repercussions of this tragic event are yet to unfold, but it is expected to bring sanctions and changes to security protocols in both Chilean and continental football.