Teenager dies in tragic accident at the Ateneo de Matanzas sports field

A 16-year-old young man lost his life this Tuesday after a metal goalpost fell on him while he was playing soccer at the sports field of Ateneo Aurelio Janet in the city of Matanzas. The boy, known to his friends as “Michelín”, was an only child.

The tragedy occurred in the morning, at one of the courts where neighborhood teenagers usually gather to play sports. According to witnesses, the heavy metal structure of the goal, apparently unstable for some time, suddenly collapsed and struck the minor directly on the head, causing almost instant death.

The teenager was rushed to the Carlos Verdugos Polyclinic, just a few meters away, but arrived dead. The news spread like wildfire throughout the community. Classmates, neighbors, and family members are in a state of shock.

“The neighborhood is destroyed, La Cumbre mourns your loss”, wrote a close friend of the young man on social media.

Michelín was very much liked among his peers and neighbors. Several people have remembered him as a cheerful, well-mannered, and athletic young man.

“He was an only child, his mother has no comfort,” lamented a mother from the neighborhood, whose family was also close to the victim.

Neighbors claim that this is not the first time that gate has fallen, although it is the first time it has caused a tragedy of this kind. “They should really take a close look at this, and the sports authorities in Matanzas need to take responsibility,” stated a witness who spoke with several young people present at the scene.

Social media users have demanded accountability for the lack of maintenance and security in sports facilities such as the Ateneo. “That place should have its doors closed if it does not provide suitable conditions”, wrote a local resident, insisting that the field should not continue to be used as if nothing had happened.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Tragedy at the Ateneo in Matanzas