Stadium stampede kills 120+

At least 125 fans and two police officers have reportedly been killed amid chaos at a football game in East Java, Indonesia, after police attempted to stop a mass brawl between supporters of the two teams with tear gas.

Hundreds of supporters rushed onto the field, clashing with rival fans and attacking several players, after an Indonesian league football match on Saturday night ended with Persebaya Surabaya beating Arema Malang 3-2.

Kanjuruhan Stadium security failed to restore order and riot police were forced to use tear gas, according to East Java Police Chief Nico Afinta – but the intervention apparently caused even more chaos. 

As people tried to flee for the exits, dozens were trampled and died on the spot, while many others succumbed to their injuries on the way to the hospital. Some of the victims reportedly suffocated.

“More than 120 people died, they died of chaos, overcrowding, trampling and suffocation,” the head of the Malang Regency health office, Wiyanto Wijoyo, said.

AP reported at least 127 deaths, including two police officers, adding that the death toll is likely to rise, since many of those who were injured are in critical condition.

In the wake of the deadly incident, the Indonesian league suspended all games for at least one week. The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) said it would launch an investigation.