in Mexico City, are crowded nightclubs usually this dangerous?
Police officers stand outside News Divine club in northeastern Mexico City, 20 Jun 2008 Police in Mexico City say 12 people were trampled to death during a police raid in an overcrowded nightclub where high school students had gathered to celebrate the end of the school year. Police chief Joel Ortega said nine young people and three police officers died. At least 20 people were injured. Authorities said police went to the nightclub Friday to check reports that alcohol was being sold to minors. Police said the club owner announced police had arrived, prompting students to stampede toward the emergency exit. Ortega said many of the victims died of asphyxiation as they tried to flee through the emergency exit, which was blocked by cases of beer. The police chief said the club was packed well beyond capacity. Police arrested 39 people, including the club’s owner. Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.
This is the unedited, uncorrected transcript of the television show ABC 20/20 “South of the Border — The Dangers of Traveling in Mexico. ” This was Part 1 which aired April 27, 1998. HUGH DOWNS, ABC NEWS We’re about to tell you some surprising and hair—raising stories about what has happened to Americans traveling south of the border. Mexico is a favorite vacation destination from this country and for good reason. But why doesn’t anybody warn you about the dangers you face there? Americans have been raped, robbed and murdered even while on vacation. Now, we know that crime is a reality for American tourists in many places. But recently, things have become a lot worse in Mexico. And tonight, Elizabeth Vargas launches the first part of her report on the dangers facing unsuspecting American tourists south of the border. ELIZABETH VARGAS, ABC NEWS (VO) The white sands and blue waters of Mexico entice millions of Americans every year. Its beautiful beaches and warm weather are close, and v
