Dozens of supporters of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro were injured by a lightning strike in Brasilia. The incident occurred as they gathered near the JK Memorial on Monumental Axis road amidst heavy rain, waiting for a march organized by Bolsonaro’s backers. Reportedly, around 72 individuals received medical attention, with 30 of them hospitalized, including eight in critical condition, according to the Federal District Fire Department. Emergency services were promptly provided by fire crews present at the scene.
Witnesses described the chaos that ensued after the lightning struck, with people falling to the ground and seeking help. One eyewitness, sales representative Alfredo Santana, recalled the confusion and rapid response by emergency personnel. The Federal District Base Hospital treated 13 patients, while others were taken to the Asa Norte Regional Hospital. Patricia Rosa, a teaching assistant, recounted her experience of being thrown to the ground and sustaining burns and ear injuries from the electrical discharge.
The incident occurred during a seven-day march named “Walk for Freedom and Justice,” led by opposition congressman Nikolas Ferreira and other right-wing politicians in support of Bolsonaro. The march, covering approximately 240km from Paracatu to Brasilia, aimed to show solidarity with Bolsonaro, who is currently serving a 27-year sentence for his involvement in a coup conspiracy. Bolsonaro was convicted in September for conspiring to retain power after losing the 2022 election to his political rival, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.