Santiago, Chile — A dark day for soccer occurred on Oct. 4, 2025, as two fans lost their lives at Estadio Monumental before the highly anticipated Copa Libertadores match between Colo-Colo and Brazil’s Fortaleza.
Local media reports indicate that chaos erupted when fans attempted to force their way into the stadium’s stands just minutes before the match was set to kick off. This breach of security led to a confrontation with police, who were deployed in armored vehicles.
The incident escalated when the Public Order Control units of the militarized Carabineros police used high-pressure water to disperse the crowd. Reports suggest that this response triggered the collapse of a perimeter fence, tragically crushing two young individuals underneath its weight.
Authorities identified the victims as an 18-year-old woman and a 13-year-old boy. As of now, the tragic event is under investigation to uncover the details surrounding the collapse and the police’s response.
Despite the horrific events, the match between Colo-Colo and Fortaleza commenced but was interrupted at the 72nd minute. A pitch invasion by distraught fans prompted the Brazilian players to flee the field in fear.
Following the invasion, CONMEBOL, the governing body for South American football, implemented their protocol to clear the stadium. The match was officially canceled shortly after the chaos unfolded.
Local reports continue to share updates on the ongoing investigations and the mourning of the fans and families affected by this tragic incident.
