A 28-year-old footballer lost his life after being struck by lightning during a friendly football match at the Lendu Rakan Muda Complex in Melaka yesterday evening.
The victim, identified as R. Thanesh, was rushed unconscious to Alor Gajah Hospital in a private vehicle following the incident, which occurred at about 5.40pm. The footballer was later pronounced dead while receiving treatment.
Match interrupted by thunderstorm
According to Astro Awani, the friendly match between Rembau Indian Veteran FC and Tanjung Minyak FC had been underway for about 10 minutes when light rain began. Moments later, a loud clap of thunder was heard across the field.
Players then noticed Thanesh and two other individuals collapse on the pitch immediately after the thunderclap.
Referee also injured
Alor Gajah district police chief Superintendent Ahmad Abu Bakar said the match referee was also injured in the incident and was taken to the hospital by ambulance for treatment. A third individual who was affected was reported to be in good condition and did not require hospital treatment.
Burn marks found during examination
Police said an initial examination of Thanesh’s body found no evidence of foul play.
However, officers discovered burn marks extending from the footballer toes to his left thigh. Burns were also found on the lower left side of his abdomen, while blackened marks were visible on his back down to his buttocks. Bleeding was also observed from his right ear.
Thanesh’s body has been sent to Melaka Hospital for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
Police have classified the incident as a sudden death report, and investigations are ongoing.
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