2 fans killed before test event at World Cup stadium

SAO PAULO – Two fans were shot to death on their way to a test event at a World Cup stadium in northeastern Brazil, authorities said.

The fans were killed about 5 kilometers (3 miles) from the Arena Castelao in the city of Fortaleza, one of the six venues hosting matches in the Confederations Cup in June.

Local World Cup organizers lamented the deaths but denied they were connected to the test event — a match between local rivals Ceara and Fortaleza.

Police said the men, wearing Ceara jerseys, were shot in the head after being confronted by Fortaleza supporters at a plaza.

Authorities later detained a man suspected of being involved in the shooting.

Police said more than 180 people were detained for vandalism and disorderly conduct before Sunday’s match.