Relatives place the coffin containing the remains of Kevin Beltran Estrada, who died after an explosive went off during a soccer game, into a car in Oruro, Bolivia, Thursday, Feb. 21, 2013. Twelve Corinthian soccer fans were arrested on suspicion of having caused the death of a 14-year-old San Jose soccer fan by launching an explosive device during a Copa Libertadores game between San Jose and Corinthians on Wednesday in the Bolivian city of Oruro, according to police. (AP Photo/Juan Karita) (The Associated Press)
SAO PAULO – A 17-year-old Corinthians fan has confessed that he set off a flare that killed a 14-year-old Bolivian boy in a Copa Libertadores match last week.
The teenager, whose name was not revealed, made the confession to a Brazilian television channel late Sunday. He was expected to turn himself in to local police later Monday.
His confession comes as 12 Corinthians fans remain in custody in Bolivia after being arrested following last Wednesday's match.
The teen said he was not aiming the device at the Bolivian fans on purpose when it allegedly went off accidentally, hitting Kevin Beltran Espada on his right eye and killing him.
As a minor, the Brazilian teen cannot be extradited to Bolivia to face charges for the crime. He may face community service in Brazil.
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