Aaron Boupendza, previously a player in Major League Soccer, has tragically passed away at the young age of 28. Reports indicate he fell from the 11th floor of a building in China. The Gabon national team officially announced his death on Wednesday.
At the time of his untimely death, Boupendza was playing for Zheijang FC in the Chinese Super League. Zheijang FC confirmed his death occurred at his residence in an Instagram post honoring him. They stated that an investigation is currently underway and the club is fully cooperating with authorities.
Boupendza played for FC Cincinnati for parts of two seasons in MLS. During the 2023 season, he participated in 10 games, scoring six goals. The following season, he scored two goals in 14 appearances. His contract with FC Cincinnati was terminated in August 2024.
FC Cincinnati released a public statement on social media expressing their condolences regarding Boupendza`s death.
`We are deeply saddened to learn about the tragic passing of Aaron Boupendza, a former forward for FC Cincinnati, earlier today at his home in China,` the team stated. `Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with his family, friends, and loved ones. He was a cherished member of the FC Cincinnati family, and we extend our condolences to everyone who knew him.`
Boupendza also proudly represented his home nation of Gabon in 35 international matches, scoring eight goals. One of these goals was during the 2016 African Nations Championship.
Adrian Whitmore