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A lightning strike hit near a rally of supporters of Brazil’s former far-right president Jair Bolsonaro in Brasilia on Sunday, injuring 89 people, according to the fire department.
Thousands appeared in the rain in the Brazilian capital to support Bolsonaro, who was sentenced to 27 years in prison last year for leading a failed attempt at a coup following his narrow re-election defeat.
Videos circulating online show crowds with colorful umbrellas and plastic ponchos caught off guard by a sudden flash of light and a thunderous sound.
The fire department reported to AFP that 89 individuals were treated at the scene, with 47 transported to hospitals.
Eleven of those injured “needed advanced medical attention,” added the fire department.
The gathering was organized by Brazilian lawmaker Nikolas Ferreira to call for “amnesty” for Bolsonaro.
Ex-president Bolsonaro is currently detained at the Papuda prison complex in Brasilia.
He has serious health issues stemming from a stabbing incident during his 2018 campaign trail, and recently spent a week hospitalized after surgery for a groin hernia and treatment for ongoing hiccups.
Earlier this month, he underwent tests following a fall in prison, but no serious injuries were identified.
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