brasília, January 26, 2026 – Eighty-nine people were injured Sunday when a lightning strike occurred near a rally in support of jailed former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, according to fire officials. The incident underscores the volatile political climate surrounding the former leader and the dedication of his supporters.
Rally Attendees Injured as Storm Rolls In
Thousands gathered in the rain to demand bolsonaro’s release, resulting in dozens of injuries after a lightning strike.
- A lightning strike injured 89 people at a pro-Bolsonaro rally in Brasília.
- 47 people required hospital treatment, with 11 in intensive care.
- The rally was organized to call for the “amnesty” of Bolsonaro and others convicted in connection with the attempted overturning of the 2022 election.
- Bolsonaro, 70, is currently serving a 27-year sentence for his role in the events surrounding the 2022 election.
the lightning bolt struck as thousands of demonstrators had assembled in the Brazilian capital to protest the imprisonment of the far-right former president,who is serving a 27-year sentence for attempting to subvert the results of his 2022 election defeat. Video footage showed a sudden flash and a loud clap of thunder as attendees scrambled for cover under umbrellas and plastic ponchos.
Fire department officials reported that 47 individuals required hospitalization, with 11 listed in intensive care. Emergency medical personnel provided treatment to dozens more at the scene. The incident occurred despite the inclement weather,as supporters remained steadfast in their exhibition.
Congressman Nikolas Ferreira organized the rally,advocating for “amnesty” for Bolsonaro and others convicted in connection with the failed attempt to overturn the 2022 election results following his narrow loss to leftist Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The call for amnesty highlights the deep divisions within brazilian society and the ongoing legal battles surrounding the election outcome.
Bolsonaro, 70, is currently detained at Papudinha, a specialized detention facility within the Papuda penitentiary complex in Brasília. He has experienced ongoing health issues, including a week-long hospital stay in December for groin hernia surgery and treatment for persistent hiccups. Earlier this month,he underwent medical evaluation after a fall while incarcerated,though doctors found no serious injuries.
What was the basis of Bolsonaro’s conviction? The former president was convicted last year on charges of attempting to maintain power through force after losing the October 2022 election. His supporters stormed government buildings in Brasília on January 8, 2023, in an attempt to incite military intervention.
The conviction and subsequent imprisonment of Bolsonaro have ignited strong reactions from his supporters, who view his legal battles as politically motivated. The rally on Sunday served as a visible display of their continued support and a demand for his release.
Quick fact: bolsonaro’s initial health problems stem from a 2018 stabbing incident during his first presidential campaign.
