Teenage boy killed by flare during Copa Libertadores match against Corinthians

A 14-year-old San José fan has died after being hit by a firework during the Copa Libertadores game against Corinthians on Wednesday. Kevin Douglas Beltran Espada, a high school student from Bolivia, was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital after the firework had penetrated his eye. The incident occurred early in the game, shortly after […]
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sambafoot_admin
2013-02-21 17:05:00

A 14-year-old San José fan has died after being hit by a firework during the Copa Libertadores game against Corinthians on Wednesday.

Kevin Douglas Beltran Espada, a high school student from Bolivia, was pronounced dead on arrival at hospital after the firework had penetrated his eye.

The incident occurred early in the game, shortly after Corinthians had taken the lead at the Jesus Bermudez stadium, with reports suggesting it was the visiting Timão fans who threw the firework.

Doctor José Maria Vargas told local media at the Hospital Obrero in Oruro: “There was a loss of brain matter as the projectile, a plastic tube, penetrated the skull. Due to this, death was immediate.”

Police supervisor Hector Rios told Fox Sports that nine Brazilian fans were arrested and had their passports withheld.

The rest of the Corinthians supporters had to remain in the stadium after the game to avoid confrontation with the home fans, who had chanted “murderers” throughout the game.

Rios said: “Unfortunately a Corinthians fan threw a cylindrical object which hit the minor in the eye, causing his death. Afterwards the fans were identified and arrested. “

Another 24-year-old fan was also taken to hospital with unspecified injuries, according to local reports.