The Security Minister of Buenos Aires Province, Sergio Berni, confirmed on Thursday the death of a man due to cardiac arrest and reported hundreds of injuries in the aftermath of a football match between Boca Juniors and Gimnasia clubs. The incident cast a shadow over a game that drew a large crowd and showcased the tense dynamics that can accompany high-stakes matches in the region.
The deceased, identified as a gymnast by authorities, passed away during the police response as officers attempted to manage surging crowds when access gates were closed. Thousands sought entry to the stadium, and reports from the Télam agency indicated that the crowd was left outside the venue as the doors were shut, triggering a chaotic situation inside and around the arena.
Berni placed accountability on the organizing club for the event, asserting that the overall management of the show fell under its responsibility. Eduardo Aparicio, head of the Agency for the Prevention of Violence in Sport (Aprevide), highlighted concerns about the police operation itself. He noted that ten thousand fans were outside when the gates closed, and police units attempted to separate the crowds with tear gas. The resulting smoke and disruption spread into the field, affecting fans in the stands and even the players on the pitch, creating a dangerous and chaotic environment.
The possibility of ticket oversales has been raised as a contributing factor. According to Télam, many fans and gym partners may have faced limited entry as the venue reached capacity, leading to dangerous pressure at the entrances. The match between Boca Juniors and Gimnasia was suspended, and no alternative date has been announced. Fans and teams await further clarification on future scheduling and safety measures to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. The evolving investigation continues to examine security planning, crowd control practices, and the responsibilities of all parties involved in the event.