Man Dies After Being Struck by Stone During Argentina World Cup Celebrations

A 46-year-old man died in Cañuelas, Argentina, after being hit by a stone during celebrations for the Argentine national team's World Cup victory over Egypt. Franco Daniel Depauli was struck in the head while festivities turned violent, and a 20-year-old suspect has been arrested.

The incident occurred at the intersection of Libertad and 25 de Mayo near Plaza San Martín on Tuesday evening. Two groups began throwing stones and bottles. According to Depauli’s family, he was getting an item from his car trunk when a stone struck his forehead, causing immediate unconsciousness Source: Infobae. However, some initial reports suggested he had tried to intervene in the fight Source: Clarin. His sister clarified he had no involvement in the altercation and was celebrating peacefully with family Source: Infobae.

Depauli was rushed to Hospital Ángel Marzetti by relatives because ambulances could not reach the crowded area. Dr. Hernán Carpio stated, “He entered without vital signs. All protocols were followed and he was resuscitated for fifty minutes, but there was no response” Source: Excelsior. Autopsy confirmed severe cranial trauma.

Hours later, police arrested Iván Nahuel Lebrero, 20, identified through security footage. He has prior robbery charges and is being held on suspicion of homicide Source: La Voz.

Depauli was a longtime resident of the Levene neighborhood and worked at Cerámica Cañuelas. He was known for community work, imitating Michael Jackson at children’s events. In his last video, he shouted, "Let's go, damn it! We never lost faith" Source: Clarin.

The municipality expressed condolences and urged witnesses to share footage. In Buenos Aires, 19 others were detained for disturbances during simultaneous celebrations Source: Excelsior.