A tragic incident unfolded in Costa Rica last week when a local soccer player was fatally attacked by a crocodile. Jesus “Chucho” Lopez Ortiz, 29, was swimming in the Cañas River when he was seized by the reptile. The river, known for its crocodile population, had been closed to fishing due to the presence of these dangerous creatures, according to Santa Cruz Police Sergeant Marcelino Hernandez.
The horrifying event took place near the town of Santa Cruz in the province of Guanacaste, about 140 miles from the capital city of San Jose. Ortiz was a member of Deportivo Río Cañas, an amateur soccer club based in Carrillo. The club confirmed Ortiz’s death in a statement on Facebook, expressing their deep sorrow and extending condolences to his family.
Witnesses at the scene captured footage of the large crocodile swimming with Ortiz’s lifeless body in its jaws. The animal remained in the water, holding onto Ortiz’s body, as onlookers continued to record the gruesome scene.
Local authorities intervened, shooting and killing the crocodile to recover Ortiz’s remains. This action was notable as crocodiles are protected animals in Costa Rica, with the Ministry of Environment and Energy prohibiting their hunting or killing.
Ortiz remembered as a family man, coach, and player, leaves behind two children, aged 8 and 3. His team paid tribute to him, stating, “We will remember you in the many facets of your sporting life as a coach, football player, and also as a family father. You will always live in our hearts Chucho; fly high friend.”
A funeral was held for Ortiz on Thursday, attended by thousands of people who filled the streets to bid farewell to “Chucho.”
Ortiz’s death has sent shockwaves through the small town, prompting a reevaluation of safety measures around the crocodile-infested river. The National System of Conservation Areas is reportedly investigating ways to better control the crocodile population and prevent further deadly encounters between the reptiles and humans.