Tragedy Strikes as Stadium Barrier Collapse Claims Lives During MC Alger’s League Title Victory Celebrations
During the joyous celebrations of MC Alger’s league title victory, tragedy struck as three spectators lost their lives and over 70 others sustained injuries when a stadium barrier collapsed, according to Algeria’s Ministry of Health.
The heartbreaking incident occurred shortly after MC Alger secured their second consecutive top-flight title. Reports from local media suggest that a section of the railing in the upper stands gave way, causing numerous fans to fall into the lower tier.
The Ministry of Health issued an official statement confirming that Beni Messous University Hospital received 38 injured individuals, while Ben Aknoun Hospital and Bab El Oued Hospital admitted 27 and 16 injured persons, respectively. Tragically, three fatalities have been confirmed as a result of the incident.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed his deep condolences to the families of the deceased and wished a speedy recovery to those who were injured.
MC Alger acknowledged the loss of one supporter, Younes Amguzzi, in an Instagram post:
It is with great sadness and sorrow that we received the news of our supporter Younes Amguzzi, who passed away after falling from the upper stands.
The club has not yet addressed the other two reported fatalities.
Footage broadcasted by El Heddaf TV captured the harrowing moment when a section of the stadium railing collapsed, sending fans tumbling into the lower level.
Emergency services sprang into action promptly, with injured spectators being swiftly transported to nearby hospitals. In a heartwarming display of solidarity, MC Alger players and staff visited the victims and participated in blood donation efforts.
As a mark of respect, the trophy presentation ceremony was postponed. Authorities have not released any statement regarding stadium safety measures or the cause of the structural failure.
