At least 12 people were injured when a stage collapsed during a school anniversary celebration in Huamachuco, Peru, on Wednesday night. The incident occurred as a mariachi singer began performing at an outdoor event for the San Nicolás school in the Plaza de Armas.
Disturbing footage shows the platform suddenly giving way and crashing to the ground as spectators watched in horror. First responders rushed to the scene, and the injured—including a teacher and two students aged 14 and 15—were taken to Leoncio Prado Hospital.
Witnesses reported that the stage had been set up between 8pm and 9pm local time. The collapse may have been caused by the number of spectators standing on the stage, according to local newspaper Perú.21.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause. The Regional Emergency Operations Center is leading the inquiry, and the removal of debris has been suspended. Deputy provincial prosecutor Wilson Muñoz has requested information about event permits and a Civil Defense report on security conditions.
Despite the accident, festivities continued after the injured were removed. All functions at the San Nicolás school have been suspended. Cesar Montes, head of the Sánchez Carrión Municipal Public Services Department, stated, 'The one who has to answer here is the one who rented the stage.'
