On the afternoon of May 8, 2025, a tragic incident unfolded in Gustavo A. Madero, Mexico City, when a metallic structure intended for a Mother’s Day concert collapsed due to strong winds. The stage was set for a performance by popular artist Alicia Villarreal, part of the "Grandiosas" concert series, which was scheduled to begin at 17:00 hours. However, the event was abruptly halted as emergency services rushed to the scene.
According to reports from the Secretariat of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection, the collapse occurred at approximately 15:50 hours, just as the area was experiencing heavy rain and wind gusts that could reach up to 50 km/h. The collapse resulted in seven reported injuries, with two individuals suffering serious injuries that necessitated hospitalization. The local mayor, Janecarlo Lozano, confirmed that while two people were hospitalized, their injuries were not life-threatening.
Eyewitnesses described a scene of chaos as the structure fell, with many people still outside the venue waiting to enter. The concert was expected to attract a large crowd, primarily women celebrating Mother’s Day. As the stage crumbled, emergency teams from the Fire Department, Cruz Roja, and Civil Protection quickly arrived to assist those injured and to secure the area. Initial reports indicated that the audience had not yet entered the venue when the incident occurred, as entry was scheduled for just before the concert.
Videos circulating on social media captured the moment of the collapse, with one bystander exclaiming, "Oh my God, it fell!" The concert was set to feature not only Villarreal but also other artists such as Ángela Carrasco and Ana Cirré, who were expected to perform some of their greatest hits.
Following the incident, the local government expressed its commitment to support those affected. The mayor indicated that an investigation would be launched to determine the cause of the collapse and to ensure that such incidents do not happen in the future. The authorities also announced that a press conference would be held shortly to provide further details on the situation.
The event was organized to celebrate Mother’s Day, an occasion that usually sees a surge in public gatherings and festivities. However, the unexpected weather conditions on that day created a hazardous environment. In a weather bulletin issued earlier that afternoon, the Secretariat of Integrated Risk Management and Civil Protection had warned of the potential for rain and strong winds.
As the cleanup began, emergency responders worked diligently to remove debris and ensure the safety of the area. The incident raised questions about the safety measures in place for public events, particularly those held outdoors in unpredictable weather conditions.
In the wake of the collapse, many attendees expressed their concerns and sought information about their loved ones who may have been at the event. The local government has promised to keep the public informed as more details emerge.
While the concert was ultimately canceled, the artists involved expressed their sorrow over the incident. Alicia Villarreal, known for her hits like "Te Aprovechas" and "Te Quedó Grande La Yegua," was looking forward to performing and has yet to comment publicly on the situation. The event will be rescheduled, although a new date has not yet been announced.
This incident is reminiscent of a similar occurrence in May 2024, when a stage structure collapsed during a campaign event, raising ongoing concerns about the safety of temporary structures at public gatherings.
As investigations continue, the focus remains on the well-being of those injured and the need for stringent safety protocols in future events. The community of Gustavo A. Madero is left to grapple with the aftermath of this unfortunate event, hoping for a swift recovery for those affected.
