Los Angeles, CA — In a shocking and surreal turn of events, global football icon Lionel Messi was reportedly present at the scene of a devastating tunnel collapse in Los Angeles just moments before the tragedy occurred. The incident, which happened earlier today, has left dozens feared trapped and multiple injuries reported. Authorities have confirmed ongoing rescue operations, while fans across the globe are reeling from the unexpected connection to the world’s most famous footballer.

According to early reports, the Argentine superstar had been in Los Angeles to attend the private funeral service of fellow footballer Diogo Jota, whose sudden passing last week stunned the sports community. The service, attended by high-profile figures from across the sporting world, was held under heavy security and media scrutiny.

Witnesses claim that after the funeral, Messi was seen traveling with a small group of friends and security personnel. Just 15 minutes before the tunnel’s structural failure, multiple bystanders spotted him in the vicinity. Some say he appeared to be passing through the area on foot, possibly greeting a few fans who had recognized him despite the somber circumstances.

The collapse occurred at approximately 2:45 p.m. local time, when a section of the tunnel—part of an underground transit extension project—gave way suddenly, sending dust, debris, and concrete tumbling down. The cause of the failure remains under investigation, but early indications suggest possible structural weaknesses exacerbated by recent seismic tremors in the region.

Los Angeles Fire Department spokesperson Mark Hernandez confirmed that emergency services were dispatched within minutes. “We have multiple units on scene, including urban search and rescue teams, paramedics, and heavy equipment operators,” Hernandez said. “Our priority is to locate and extract anyone trapped inside. Time is critical.”

Messi’s current status remains unclear. Initial confusion spread online after unverified social media posts claimed the football star had gone missing following the incident. However, sources close to the family later told Argentine media outlet La Nación that Messi was “safe but deeply shaken” by what he had witnessed.

The player’s family, speaking briefly through a representative, expressed their anguish over the tragic events. “We are heartbroken for the victims and their loved ones,” the statement read. “Leo happened to be in the area shortly before the collapse and is devastated by what has happened. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected.”

Fans around the globe have flooded social media with messages of concern and solidarity. Hashtags such as #PrayForLA and #StaySafeMessi began trending within an hour of the news breaking. Some supporters expressed disbelief at the extraordinary coincidence, while others urged people not to speculate until official information is released.

Local authorities have so far confirmed at least five injuries, though that number is expected to rise as search efforts continue. Structural engineers on site have warned that parts of the tunnel remain unstable, slowing down the rescue operation. Specialized listening devices and thermal cameras are being deployed to detect signs of life under the rubble.

Eyewitnesses described the moment the disaster struck as “like an earthquake.” One construction worker, Luis Martinez, told reporters: “I was just outside the tunnel entrance when everything started shaking. The sound was deafening. People were screaming, running for their lives. It was chaos.”

Messi, who has been in the United States for various appearances following his recent MLS commitments, has yet to make a personal statement. Friends and teammates have reached out privately, with some sharing their thoughts publicly. Former Barcelona teammate Sergio Agüero posted on Instagram: “Horrible news from LA. My prayers are with everyone there. Stay strong, brother.”

As night falls in Los Angeles, rescue crews are working under floodlights to clear debris. Officials have urged the public to avoid the area to allow emergency services to operate without obstruction.

This tragedy comes at a time when the city is already grappling with infrastructure concerns and safety debates surrounding ongoing construction projects. Experts say a full investigation could take months, with legal and political consequences likely to follow.

For now, the focus remains firmly on the human toll of today’s events. Families of those unaccounted for have gathered nearby, some clinging to hope, others bracing for devastating news.

Whether by coincidence or fate, Messi’s presence so close to the disaster has amplified global attention on the tragedy. While he may have escaped physical harm, the emotional weight of such an experience will undoubtedly linger.

As Los Angeles wakes tomorrow, the world will be watching—not just for updates on the rescue efforts, but also for reassurance that even in moments of unimaginable loss, solidarity and compassion can bridge the gaps between us.