By Aaron Boupendza has died at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, the Gabon Football Federation (Fegafoot) announced on Wednesday. The striker was playing for Chinese club Zhejiang FC at the time of his death.
In a statement posted on X, Fegafoot confirmed the heartbreaking news, describing Boupendza as “a great striker who left his mark on the Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.” Boupendza featured prominently for the national team, including their 2022 AFCON campaign that ended in the round of 16 against Burkina Faso.
“It is with immense sadness that I learn of the tragic death of Aaron Boupendza,” Gabonese president-elect Brice Oligui Nguema shared in a condolence message. “A talented centre-forward who brought honour to Gabonese football,” he added.
Local broadcaster Gabon 24 reported that an investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances surrounding Boupendza’s death. As of now, details remain unclear.
Born in Moanda, Boupendza began his professional career in 2016 with French club Bordeaux, though he spent much of his early career on loan across France. He rose to prominence with Turkish side Hatayspor, where he finished as top scorer in the 2020–21 Super Lig season.
His football journey later took him to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United States, Romania, and finally China, where he joined Zhejiang FC in January. Fegafoot, fans, and the broader football community have expressed deep shock over the sudden loss, extending heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.
