At least three people have died and 38 others were injured in a tragic accident at a monster truck show in Popayan, Colombia, when the vehicle plowed into a group of spectators after a failed stunt, authorities confirmed.
Details of the Incident
The accident occurred on Sunday during a motor show in the city of Popayan, located in the Cauca province. According to police reports, the driver of the monster truck lost control of the vehicle after attempting a wheelie. The truck then swerved off the track, crashed through a barrier, and plowed into the crowd before coming to a halt after hitting an electricity pole.
Among the deceased was a 10-year-old girl who died at the scene, as reported by Colombian news outlet El Espectador. Several children were also among the injured, as families had gathered to watch the show.
Eyewitness Accounts and Emergency Response
Social media footage captured the moment of the crash, showing the truck lifting its front wheels before veering off course and into the spectators. People could be seen fleeing as the truck barreled through the barrier.
Popayan police commander Colonel Julian Castaneda told El Tiempo that the vehicle accelerated and the brakes failed. The driver is reported to be in stable condition.
Francisco Arboleda, head of the Popayan fire department, stated that some of the injured spectators rushed to hospitals were in serious condition. Paramedic Andres Hurtado, who was near the scene, said he treated three people with severe injuries, including a young girl.
Official Reactions and Investigation
Popayan Mayor Juan Carlos Munoz expressed his grief on social media, writing: "We are deeply pained by the accident … which has preliminarily left more than 38 people injured and 3 dead." He ordered an investigation into the disaster, emphasizing that it "should never have happened."
Regional Governor Octavio Guzman also offered condolences, stating: "We express our solidarity with the families of those affected by this tragic accident, as well as with our capital city, Popayan."
Authorities are continuing their investigation into the cause of the brake failure and the overall safety protocols at the event.
