A tragic accident occurred at a campaign rally in the northern Mexican state of Nuevo Leon, where a strong gust of wind caused the stage to collapse. At least nine people, including a child, were killed, and 63 others were injured. The event was attended by presidential candidate Jorge Álvarez Máynez, who narrowly escaped the falling structure. Videos of the incident circulated on social media, showing chaos and panic as people tried to flee the collapsing stage. The victims were not alone in their tragedy, as Máynez expressed his condolences and suspended upcoming campaign events. Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador also sent his condolences to the families and friends of the victims.
Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia urged residents to stay in their homes for the next two hours following the tragedy. Máynez, who was in good condition, went to a hospital after the accident in San Pedro Garza Garcia. He emphasized the importance of caring for the victims in the aftermath of the disaster. Videos showed Máynez escaping the falling structure by running to the back of the stage, avoiding the potentially deadly situation. While currently running third in the presidential race, Máynez’s opponents, such as Claudia Sheinbaum and Xóchitl Gálvez, expressed their condolences and solidarity with the victims and their families. Campaign events were canceled or altered in response to the tragedy.
The accident occurred during the peak of the campaign season in Mexico, leading up to the June 2 presidential, state, and municipal elections. The country has seen a rise in violence against candidates, with approximately two dozen local office candidates being killed. However, this tragic event marked the first major campaign accident in recent memory. Condolences poured in from various political figures and parties, emphasizing the importance of unity and support in the face of such a devastating loss. The incident served as a somber reminder of the risks and dangers associated with political campaigning, as candidates and their supporters navigate through a challenging and uncertain electoral landscape.
Despite the tragedy, the Mexican people are resilient and determined to continue with the democratic process as they approach the upcoming elections. The victims of the stage collapse will be remembered and honored as the country mourns their loss. The political candidates and parties have come together in a time of crisis, setting aside their differences to focus on supporting the victims and their families. As the campaign season progresses, the safety and well-being of all participants and attendees will be a top priority to prevent further accidents or tragedies from occurring. The Mexican community stands in solidarity, offering strength and compassion to those affected by the devastating events at the campaign rally in Nuevo Leon.
