A flag-raising event in Pachuca turned into an emergency when a child suffered burns after being caught by flames during a ceremony.
Former footballer Óscar “Conejo” Pérez, current director of the Hidalgense Institute of Sport, quickly reacted upon noticing the fire and ran towards the child, using his jacket to extinguish the flames. The boy was taken to a hospital, where he received treatment for injuries to his face, forehead, and head, and is now out of danger.
The incident occurred at the Ciudad Deportiva de Alto Rendimiento in Venta Prieta, where the ceremony was being held to introduce the athletes who will compete in the Paralimpiada Nacional. The event, led by Governor Julio Menchaca Salazar, brought together 72 athletes with disabilities who will participate in 11 disciplines, along with their families, coaches, and state authorities.
The program included a cultural presentation that featured an ancestral flute with a lit flame. During this performance, the fire spread towards the boy, who was in close proximity to the exhibition area. Despite the intervention of a person who attempted to extinguish the fire using a flag, the flames persisted, prompting Pérez to leave his position alongside other officials and take direct action.
Once the fire was completely extinguished with Pérez’s jacket, the child was evacuated from the area for medical attention. Witnesses to the incident watched the situation unfold with concern. Pérez, who was near the governor, was later praised for his swift action.
Óscar Pérez, known for his career as a goalkeeper for teams such as Pachuca and Cruz Azul, as well as his participation in the Mexican National Team at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, has maintained a close connection with sports in Hidalgo, both on the field and in his current administrative role.
Source: www.infobae.com
