A footballer in Mexico is accused of inadvertently killing a referee after being sent off during an amateur fixture in Tulancingo.

The Sunday league contest, taking place in the state of Hildalgo, was marred by an incident sparked by the brandishing of a red card.

Ruben Rivera Vazquez allegedly became so incensed with the decision that he head-butted the match official, Victor Trejo – as reported by local news outlet Criterion Hidalgo.

Paramedics on hand rushed to the scene, initially believing that the victim had fainted, but they were unable to revive him.

According to emergency services, the referee died of a ‘widespread subarachnoid hematoma’, which was caused by a significant blow to the head.

The alleged perpetrator is now on the run from authorities after fleeing the scene.