A Costa Rican soccer player was killed after jumping into a crocodile-infested river and being devoured by one of the reptiles in front of terrified onlookers.
Last week, terrifying film recorded the gigantic prehistoric creature swimming through the water with Jesus “Chucho” Lopez Ortiz’s lifeless body clasped inside its jaws.
According to Santa Cruz Police Sergeant Marcelino Hernandez, Ortiz, 29, leaped into the Caas River from a bridge that was restricted for fishing due to the presence of crocodiles in the river.
The upsetting episode occurred near Santa Cruz in the region of Guanacaste, around 140 miles from Costa Rica’s capital city of San Jose.
Ortiz was a member of Deportivo Ro Caas, an amateur club team based in Carrillo, which announced his death in a Facebook post.
“With great sadness, we announce the death of our player Jesus Lopez Ortiz (Chucho), may God have mercy.” “Rest in Peace Chucho, we share your family’s grief,” the team said.
The animal remained in the water, clutching Ortiz’s body, as witnesses continued to videotape the heinous act.
A Costa Rican Red Cross representative informed the publication that local authorities shot and killed the crocodile in order to rescue Ortiz’s remains.
Crocodiles are protected animals in the Latin American country, and hunting or killing protected animals is prohibited by the Costa Rican Ministry of Environment and Energy.
Ortiz is remembered as a family man, coach, and athlete, leaving behind two children, ages 8 and 3.
“We will remember you as a coach, football player, and family father in all aspects of your sporting life.” Chucho, you will always be in our hearts. Fly high, friend.’
A funeral was held for Ortiz on Thursday, which was attended by “thousands of people” who flooded the streets to say “goodbye to Chucho,” the team said.
In October 2022, an 8-year-old boy was mauled to death by a crocodile in the Costa Rican city of Limón.
Julio Otero Fernández was decapitated by the reptile before it dragged the boy’s body into the Matina River on Oct. 30.
