The stage collapsed at an election rally in Mexico killing nine people and injuring 63 others (Picture: EPA)
At least nine people have been killed, including a child, after a stage collapsed at an election rally in Mexico.
Around 63 others have been injured after the stage flew away during a strong gust of wind at the event held in Monterrey, Mexico, attended by presidential hopeful Jorge Alvarez Maynez.
Videos on social media show Mr Maynez waving at the crowd before a giant screen and metal structure topple towards him.
He can then be seen running to the back of the stage to avoid the falling structure.
Mr Maynez was left uninjured and was seen talking to supporters following the collapse.
Videos from the scene show people screaming, running away, and climbing out from under metal polls.
Mr Maynez said: ‘First I saw the musicians’ drums, from the group that was going to play, were going to get blown away.
‘When the others noticed, they ran in different directions; some jumped to the sides and I jumped back.
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Paramedics evacuate one of the injured people after the stage collapse (Picture: EPA)
Those who were injured were taken to hospital for treatment (Picture: EPA)
‘What we experienced happened in just a few seconds: A gale came, a sudden wind, and unfortunately, it collapsed the stage, resulting in a fatal accident.’
He confirmed he was suspending upcoming campaign events following the tragedy.
He told the victims they ‘will not be alone in this tragedy’ and visited a hospital where the injured have been taken.
He said: ‘The only important thing at this point is to care for the victims of the accident.’
Three of those who have been injured require hospital surgery.
Many emergency services attended the scene to help (Picture: EPA)
Many also required treatment at the scene (Picture: EPA)
Following the gust of wind, State Governor Samuel Garcia posted on social media and told residents to stay indoors.
He wrote: ‘If you can, avoid going out because there are storms and atypical winds. I will keep you informed.’
Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said he ‘sends a hug to family members, friends of the victims and political supporters’.
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Mr Maynez is running third in Presidential race polls that take place in the country on June 2.
The front-runner is Claudia Sheinbaum of the ruling Morena Party and polling in second currently is opposition coalition candidate Xochitl Galvez.
The campaign has already been plagued by controversy following the killings of about two dozen candidates for local offices.
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