The death of physiotherapist Laura Nayeli Hernández Clemente, 24 years old, during the Cholula Games in San Andrés Cholula, sparked strong criticism for the lack of timely medical attention. The official confirmation of her death by the City Hall led by Guadalupe Cuautle Torres came 48 hours after the incident, causing an uproar in the sports community and public opinion.
Nayeli, originally from Xalapa, Veracruz, was a student of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation at Anáhuac University and worked at a rehabilitation center in Veracruz. Passionate about crossfit, she is described by her brother as a strong, generous, athletic young woman, and nature lover, with a deep vocation for helping others.
On Friday, May 2, amid the competition, Nayeli fainted during one of the events and received assistance from a doctor present at the event. Despite medical efforts, she was transported to a private hospital in critical condition and died that same day. Despite the tragedy, the Cholula Games continued without being suspended.
The lack of emergency protocols and proper attention has been criticized towards the Secretary of Welfare, the organizing company Kraken Fitness Asociados S.A. de C.V., and Mayor Lupita Cuautle Torres. Witnesses reported the lack of qualified medical personnel and functional equipment at the event, which may have influenced the lack of timely response for Nayeli.
