Footballer dead after falling from 11th floor

Gabonese football star Aaron Salem Boupendza has tragically lost his life after falling from the 11th floor of a residential building in China.

According to international media reports, Chinese police confirmed that Boupendza was in China for the Chinese Super League. The incident occurred on Wednesday in the city of Hangzhou, where the 28-year-old striker fell from the balcony of a rented apartment.

He was immediately rushed to the hospital in critical condition but was later pronounced dead by doctors.

Boupendza had played 35 international matches for the Gabon national team and scored eight goals during his international career. Known for his attacking prowess, he was a key player for his national side.

He had also featured in club football across the Middle East. During the 2022–23 season, Boupendza played for two major Arab clubs — Al-Arabi in Qatar and Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia.

Earlier, Uruguayan footballer John Ezquerdo suffered a fatal heart attack during a match in Brazil. The game was immediately stopped after Ezquerdo collapsed on the field, and players gathered around him in distress. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, but he passed away en route.