A 17-year-old girl has died during celebrations in France following the country’s World Cup quarter-final victory over Morocco, emergency services have confirmed.
The teenager was killed in the northern town of Aulnoye-Aymeries, near Maubeuge, after falling from a truck during street celebrations and being struck by the vehicle.
According to emergency officials, the girl was travelling on the truck when she “fell and was run over” by the vehicle. She was pronounced dead at the scene despite emergency efforts.
The incident occurred as thousands of supporters across France celebrated the national team’s 2-0 victory over Morocco in the World Cup quarter-final played in the United States.
Fans gathered in cities and towns across the country after the final whistle, with crowds filling streets, waving French flags and celebrating another major step in France’s World Cup campaign.
In Paris, large numbers of supporters gathered in public areas to celebrate the result, while thousands of police officers were deployed to manage crowds and maintain security.
However, the celebrations were overshadowed by the fatal incident in Aulnoye-Aymeries, where authorities launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s death.
The driver of the truck involved in the incident has been detained by authorities as part of the investigation.
Another teenager who witnessed the accident was taken to hospital after suffering from shock, emergency services said.
Authorities have urged supporters taking part in public celebrations to remain cautious, particularly around vehicles, crowded areas and spontaneous gatherings.
Large sporting victories often bring thousands of people onto streets around the world, but authorities regularly warn that celebrations involving vehicles, fireworks and uncontrolled crowds can create serious safety risks.
READ MORE: Argentina vs Wales: Petti Reaches 100 Caps in Test Clash
France’s victory over Morocco sparked widespread celebrations as supporters marked the team’s progress in the tournament. The national side’s strong World Cup performances have traditionally brought millions of fans together for public celebrations.
France has experienced similar large-scale gatherings during previous football successes, including the country’s World Cup victories in 1998 and 2018, when supporters filled major streets and landmarks to celebrate.
While the latest celebrations reflected the excitement surrounding France’s football campaign, the death of the teenager highlighted the importance of safety during major public events.
Officials are expected to provide further details as investigations continue into how the accident happened and whether any safety measures were breached.
The tragedy comes as France prepares for further World Cup action, with fans continuing to support the national team while mourning the loss of a young supporter during what was meant to be a moment of national celebration.