A tragic accident occurred during a campaign rally in San Pedro Garza Garcia, Mexico, leaving at least five people dead, 50 injured, and others trapped. The collapse of the stage happened as presidential candidate Jorge Álvarez Máynez was in attendance, who managed to run to safety. Videos of the incident circulated on social media, showing chaos and panic as people tried to escape from under the fallen structure. Máynez expressed his condolences to the victims and suspended upcoming campaign events in light of the tragedy.
Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador offered his sympathies to the families and friends of the victims, while condolences poured in from across the country, including from other presidential candidates. Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia shared the death toll and urged residents to stay indoors for their safety. Máynez, who escaped unharmed, emphasized the importance of caring for the victims in the aftermath of the accident.
The mayor of San Pedro Garza Garcia, Miguel Treviño, also expressed concern for those trapped and injured from the collapse. The incident took place in a wealthy suburb near Monterrey where campaign events were being held in preparation for the upcoming elections. Videos of the accident captured Máynez attempting to avoid the falling structure as he saw it coming toward him. Despite the chaos, he managed to reach safety, leading to the suspension of his campaign activities.
Máynez, who is running third in the polls for the presidential race, following Claudia Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez, has faced challenges in a campaign marked by violence against candidates. This tragic accident added a new dimension to the campaign season, as it brought about unprecedented casualties. The incident highlighted the dangers associated with political gatherings and the need for increased safety measures to protect participants and attendees.
As investigations into the cause of the collapse continue, questions arise about the stability and construction of the stage at the rally. The incident drew attention to the risks faced by political candidates and supporters during campaign events, prompting calls for improved safety protocols and regulations to prevent similar accidents in the future. Despite the tragedy, the campaign carries on, with candidates continuing to engage with voters and address pressing issues leading up to the elections on June 2.
