AN EASTER performance turned to tragedy in Mexico when a young man playing Judas slipped and accidentally hanged himself.

According to witnesses, 23-year-old Jose Ignacio put a rope around his neck and then around a tree to simulate his death during the Crucifixion scene.

Hundreds were watching as he fell from a plinth that had been supporting his weight, but most initially believed it was part of the show.

When they realised he wasn’t breathing, spectators rushed to help, but they were unable to revive him.

He died while he was being transported to hospital.

The play is a vital part of Easter celebrations for the Catholic population in Barranquillas, recreating the final hours of Christ before he was killed.



Police have ruled out the possibility of foul play or suicide, saying it was simply an unfortunate accident.

However, the local Attorney-General’s office is investigating.