Gabonese Footballer Aaron Boupendza Dies In Tragic Fall From Building In China

Gabonese Footballer Aaron Boupendza Dies In Tragic Fall From Building In China

Gabon international and professional footballer Aaron Boupendza has tragically passed away at the age of 28, following a fall from the 11th floor of a building in China, as confirmed by the Gabonese Football Federation (Fegafoot).

In a statement released on social media platform X, Fegafoot announced, “The Gabonese international lost his life after falling from the 11th floor of his residence in China, where he was currently playing for Zhejiang FC.…READ MORE….

The federation paid tribute to the late striker, remembering him as a remarkable talent whose performance left a lasting impression during the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament held in Cameroon. Boupendza notably represented Gabon at the 2022 AFCON, where the national team, known as the Panthers, exited in the Round of 16 following a defeat by Burkina Faso.

The Gabonese football community, led by Fegafoot, has extended its deepest condolences to Boupendza’s family, friends, and teammates, acknowledging the immense loss to the sport.

Gabon’s President-elect, Brice Oligui Nguema, also expressed his grief in a heartfelt message on X, saying, “I am deeply saddened by the tragic passing of Aaron Boupendza, a talented striker who brought pride to Gabonese football.”

According to local broadcaster Gabon 24, the exact details surrounding the incident remain unclear. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances leading to his death.

Born in Moanda, Gabon, Boupendza began his professional career in 2016 with French club Bordeaux, spending time on loan at several clubs within France. His breakthrough came in 2020 when he joined Turkish side Hatayspor and emerged as the top scorer in the Super Lig for the 2020–2021 season.

He later played for Al Arabi in Qatar—where he secured the Qatar FA Cup—and for Al Shabab in Saudi Arabia. His career also included a stint with FC Cincinnati in the United States, a brief period with Romania’s Rapid Bucharest, and most recently, a move to China in January 2025 to join Zhejiang FC.