Lima: At least one person was killed and 47 injured in an "incident" at Alejandro Villanueva Stadium in Peru's capital ahead of a football derby, according to the health ministry.

According to Emirates News Agency, Health Minister Juan Carlos Velasco informed the media about the unfortunate event, stating, "There has been an unfortunate incident at the stadium in which 47 people have been injured...and sadly there is one fatality." However, he did not specify the cause of the incident, leaving many questions unanswered.

Initial reports had suggested a structural collapse at the stadium as the cause of the incident. However, both firefighters and the football club have since ruled out any damage to the venue's infrastructure. The exact nature of the incident remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.

The incident occurred just before a highly anticipated football derby, casting a shadow over the event and raising concerns over safety protocols at large gatherings. The health ministry is reportedly coordinating with local authorities to provide medical assistance to the injured and support to the families affected by the tragedy.