SAN PEDRO GARZA GARCIA, Mexico - Tragedy struck a campaign rally in northern Mexico on Wednesday when strong winds caused a stage to collapse, resulting in the deaths of at least nine people, including a child, and injuring 63 others. The incident occurred in San Pedro Garza Garcia, a wealthy suburb near Monterrey in the state of Nuevo Leon, during an event featuring presidential candidate Jorge Álvarez Máynez.

The event was part of Máynez’s campaign efforts as he runs for the presidency, although he is considered a long-shot candidate. Attendees gathered in the park where the rally was held, unaware of the impending disaster. The sudden and powerful wind gusts toppled the stage, leading to chaos and panic.

Videos posted on social media captured the harrowing moments as attendees screamed, ran for safety, and helped each other escape from the wreckage of metal poles and structures. Some footage showed people climbing out from under the debris, while others attempted to assist those trapped beneath.

Máynez, visibly shaken, addressed reporters later that night, saying, "The victims will not be alone in this tragedy." He announced the suspension of his upcoming campaign events as a mark of respect and mourning.

In the aftermath of the collapse, soldiers, police, and other officials were seen patrolling the park grounds, securing the area, and aiding the injured. Many attendees sat stunned and haunted by the tragedy, struggling to comprehend the sudden turn of events.

Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador expressed his condolences in a statement, offering support to the victims' families and political allies. "I send a hug to the family members, friends of the victims, and political supporters," he said. Other presidential candidates, including front-runner Claudia Sheinbaum of the ruling Morena Party and opposition coalition candidate Xóchitl Gálvez, also shared their sympathies. Sheinbaum canceled a campaign event in nearby Monterrey the following day in solidarity with the victims.

In a video message, Nuevo Leon Governor Samuel Garcia, a leading member of Máynez’s Citizens Movemen. party, urged residents to stay indoors for the next two hours as a precaution. He emphasized the need for safety and the importance of staying calm in the face of the tragedy.

Máynez, who visited a hospital following the accident, confirmed he was unharmed. "The only important thing at this point is to care for the victims of the accident," he wrote on social media, expressing his gratitude for the well-wishes and support he had received.

Footage of the incident showed Máynez on stage, waving to the crowd, when a giant screen and metal structure began to collapse. He quickly moved to the back of the stage to avoid being struck by the falling framework, which included a screen displaying the party’s logo and theater-style lights. The structure appeared to consist of relatively light framework pieces, but the impact and chaos caused significant injuries and fatalities.

This incident comes during a violent campaign season in Mexico, marked by frequent attacks and threats against political candidates. Máynez is currently trailing in third place in the presidential race, behind front-runner Claudia Sheinbaum and opposition candidate Xóchitl Gálvez. Both Sheinbaum and Gálvez extended their condolences, with Sheinbaum canceling her campaign event in Monterrey out of respect for the victims.

"My condolences and prayers are with the families of the dead, and my wishes for a speedy recovery to all those injured," Gálvez posted on social media.

The campaign season has been marred by violence, with about two dozen candidates for local offices being killed. Just last week, a mayoral candidate and five others were killed in a shooting at a campaign rally in Chiapas, a state plagued by cartel-related violence and political unrest.

The tragic event in San Pedro Garza Garcia highlights the ongoing dangers and volatility of the Mexican political landscape, where candidates and their supporters often face significant risks. As the nation approaches the June 2 presidential, state, and municipal elections, the focus remains on ensuring safety and security for all involved.