Tragedy at AXE Ceremonia 2025: Beloved Photographers Berenice Giles Rivera and Miguel Ángel Hernández Killed in Festival Accident
MEXICO CITY, MX — April 5, 2025
What was meant to be a celebration of music, culture, and creativity turned into a heartbreaking day of loss at the AXE Ceremonia 2025 music festival held at Parque Bicentenario in Mexico City. Two prominent photographers and beloved figures in the independent arts scene, Berenice Giles Rivera and Miguel Ángel Hernández, tragically lost their lives after a metal structure collapsed near the main stage.
The fatal incident occurred around 5:00 p.m., shortly before the festival was set to welcome a major act to the stage. According to eyewitnesses and initial statements from authorities, the metal structure—believed to be a decorative installation being maneuvered by a crane—became unstable due to a sudden and forceful gust of wind. It came crashing down in an area designated for press and staff, where Berenice and Miguel were working. Despite immediate medical attention and rapid emergency response, both sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene.
The devastating news has sent shockwaves through Mexico’s art and music communities, particularly the vibrant “Mr. Indie” scene, where both Berenice and Miguel were well-known and respected for their dedication to capturing the energy and emotion of live performance through their lenses.
A Loss Felt Across the Creative Community
Berenice Giles Rivera, an accomplished and passionate photographer, was known for her ability to portray raw, intimate moments in a way that spoke to the soul of the indie music movement. She was often seen side stage or in the crowd, camera in hand, always chasing the perfect frame that captured the essence of the music and the spirit of the people who loved it.
Miguel Ángel Hernández, equally revered, brought a unique artistic sensibility to his work. He was a storyteller, known for portraits that went beyond the surface—documenting not just the artists, but the culture and community that surrounded them. Together, Berenice and Miguel had contributed to hundreds of shows and festivals over the years, often working side by side to document moments that have now become part of the visual history of Mexico’s indie music scene.
The team behind Mr. Indie, a popular platform dedicated to independent music and culture in Mexico, issued a heartfelt statement late Saturday night:
“We are devastated beyond words. Berenice and Miguel were more than colleagues—they were family. Their passion fueled everything we did. Their energy, creativity, and love for this community will never be forgotten.”
Festival Response and Investigation Underway
In the wake of the accident, organizers of the AXE Ceremonia festival immediately suspended all performances for the day and began working with authorities to determine the exact cause of the collapse. The site was secured, and a full investigation is now underway.
Officials from Mexico City have confirmed that safety protocols and weather patterns at the time of the incident are being scrutinized. The crane operator and construction teams are cooperating with authorities. Questions remain about whether the structure had been properly secured against unexpected weather conditions.
Outpouring of Grief
The deaths of Berenice and Miguel have prompted an overwhelming outpouring of grief and tributes across social media. Artists, fans, colleagues, and friends have posted personal stories, photos, and videos—many remembering how the two photographers had captured some of the most iconic and joyful moments in recent music memory.
Local artist Luna Mora wrote:
“It was Berenice who shot the photo that changed my career. Miguel gave me my first real portrait. This is a heartbreaking, senseless loss. We owe so much of our story to them.”
A candlelight vigil is being planned at Parque Bicentenario in the coming days, and fellow creatives are calling for greater safety oversight at festivals moving forward, especially for workers and press who support the events behind the scenes.
Remembering Their Legacy
As the indie music community mourns, it also remembers. Berenice Giles Rivera and Miguel Ángel Hernández were more than just photographers—they were artists, dreamers, and chroniclers of joy, rebellion, and expression. They helped define the visual language of an entire generation of music lovers.
They leave behind not only a grieving community but a body of work that will continue to inspire, speak, and resonate.
Rest in power, Berenice and Miguel. Your lenses may be still, but your vision lives on. 📸🖤