Colombia: Authorities responding to fatal structural collapse at bullfighting festival in El Espinal, Tolima Department, June 26

Event

Authorities are conducting search and rescue operations at a stadium hosting a bullfighting festival in El Espinal municipality, Tolima Department, after a wooden stand accommodating spectators at the venue collapsed June 26. The structural collapse has reportedly left at least four people dead and some 500 others injured; the casualty count may increase over the coming hours as some individuals remain trapped underneath the rubble. At least one bull fled the stadium amid the incident, causing panic in the area.

Authorities will likely maintain heightened security measures in the area over the coming hours. Localized transport and business disruptions are likely for the duration of the search and rescue operations.

Advice

Avoid the area until authorities give the all-clear. Plan for related transport disruptions; seek alternative routes to circumvent the affected area and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations. Adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities.