A Mexican political event became the scene of tragedy this week when a stage collapse led to multiple fatalities. 

According to Fox News, the incident occurred in the Mexican state of Nuevo Leon on Wednesday evening during a rally for long-shot presidential candidate Jorge Álvarez Máynez.

Nine rally-goers dead and dozens more seriously injured

While Máynez is said to have been in good condition after being taken to hospital, a total of nine people lost their lives while dozens of others were seriously injured.

The candidate released a statement announcing that he is suspending future events and stressed that those affected "will not be alone in this tragedy," adding, "The only important thing at this point is to care for the victims of the accident."

Máynez's two main rivals have weighed in as well, with race leader Claudia Sheinbaum announcing that she had postponed an event which was to be held on Thursday.

Second place contender Xóchitl Gálvez put up a social media post which offered condolences and prayers to the "families of the dead" and wished for "a speedy recovery to all those injured."

Meanwhile, current Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador announced that he wanted to send "a hug to family members, friends of the victims and political supporters."

Viral video shows Máynez escaping stage just prior to collapse

Harrowing footage of the collapse circulated on social media which showed Máynez rushing to safety just before the stage gave way.

Here's another angle on the stage collapse in Mexico tonight.

At least 4 are dead.

Mexican presidential candidate escapes at the last second.pic.twitter.com/q9fo3W7iUx

— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) May 23, 2024

The BBC quoted Máynez as saying, "First I saw the musicians' drums, from the group that was going to play, were going to get blown away."

"When the others noticed, they ran in different directions; some jumped to the sides and I jumped back," the candidate went on to add.

Nova Leon governor says an investigation into tragedy will be carried out

Fox Weather reported that the collapse was apparently due to strong winds, and Mexico's National Meteorological Service had warned of severe weather in Nuevo Leon, including hail and tornadoes.

The network noted that weather stations near San Pedro recorded wind gusts reaching up to 48 mph on Wednesday evening.

Nova Leon Gov. Samuel García revealed that the state Security and Civil Protection Operational Group is investigating events at Máynez's rally.