Stage Collapse Injures Dozens at Peruvian School Anniversary

Stage Collapse at Peruvian School Anniversary Injures Dozens Huamachuco, Peru – A joyous school anniversary celebration turned into chaos on Wednesday when a stage collapsed during a mariachi performance at the San Nicolás school in the northern district of Huamachuco. At least twelve people sustained injuries in the incident, underscoring the importance of safety precautions at public events. The video footage, widely circulated on social media, shows the mariachi band performing when the stage structure suddenly gives way. People are seen scrambling to escape the falling debris as a cloud of dust fills the air. The scene is chaotic, with screams and cries audible amidst the confusion. "It happened so fast," recounted one eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous. "One moment, we were enjoying the music, and the next, everything came crashing down." Another witness described the scene as "terrifying," emphasizing the swiftness of the collapse and the panic that ensued. Emergency services swiftly responded, providing medical attention to the injured. While the exact cause of the collapse is still under investigation, preliminary reports suggest a possible structural failure. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical need for thorough safety inspections and structural integrity assessments at all public events, especially those involving large crowds. The school administration released a statement expressing their deep regret over the incident and their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of their students and community members. A full investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the collapse and prevent future occurrences.