Three people died of asphyxiation during widespread celebrations in downtown Mexico City after the national soccer team secured a place in the World Cup Round of 16. The victims, two women and one man, were found unconscious near the Angel of Independence monument where thousands had gathered Tuesday night, according to Mexico City's Health Secretariat.
The deceased individuals were aged 48, 44, and 19. Authorities have not released further details regarding the specific circumstances of the deaths. Mexico City Mayor Clara Brugada confirmed that emergency crews responded to reports of the unconscious individuals but stated they had already passed away.
Brugada urged the public to celebrate with "responsibly, carefully and with empathy." The celebrations involved fireworks and a large crowd along the Paseo de la Reforma, a major avenue in the capital.
Reports indicated that approximately one million people were in the streets, leading Brugada to encourage people to avoid the city center due to overcrowding and suggested attending a concert in another part of the city. The atmosphere was described as overwhelming, with spontaneous music, crowds of people, and the movement of street vendors selling fireworks known as 'toritos'.