At least two people have died and 11 others were injured during a traditional bull-running event in the Mexican city of Huamantla, after dozens of participants were caught in the path of charging animals.
The incident took place in Huamantla, in the state of Tlaxcala, where 21 bulls were released onto narrow streets packed with people taking part in the annual event.
One of those killed was identified as 29-year-old Juan Manuel Filomeno Herrera, who was struck by a bull and suffered fatal injuries to his chest and legs.
Video footage showed Herrera attempting to move away from the animal before appearing to stumble. The bull then charged towards him, leaving spectators’ cheers replaced by screams as the animal knocked him into the air.
Further footage showed another participant being tossed towards the spectator stands by a charging bull. She survived the incident without life-threatening injuries.
At least 11 other people suffered injuries after being struck or knocked down by the bulls, although authorities said they survived the ordeal.
The deaths have cast a sombre shadow over an event that has been held in Huamantla since 1953 and attracts large crowds each year. Organisers and authorities are now facing renewed attention over safety measures during the traditional spectacle.
The latest fatalities are reportedly the first deaths recorded at the Huamantla bull-running event in eight years, highlighting the risks participants face when running alongside powerful animals through crowded streets.
Bull-running remains a deeply rooted tradition in parts of Mexico, drawing both local participants and visitors despite the dangers involved. The Huamantla event continues to attract crowds seeking the thrill of getting close to the charging bulls, but the latest tragedy has once again underscored the potentially deadly consequences.
