Former MLS star Aaron Boupendza has died at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a building in China, the Gabonese Football Federation (FEGAFOOT), soccer's governing body in his native Gabon, announced in a statement shared on X Wednesday (April 16).
Boupendza was a member of Zheijang FC of the Chinese Super League and reported to have died at his residence, the club confirmed in a statement obtained by ESPN.
"Now the club is fully cooperating with the relevant departments to carry out the investigation," the statement added.
Boupendza joined the MLS club FC Cincinnati as a Designated Player in the summer of 2023 as part of a $7 million transfer fee, scoring five goals in his first 10 games, helping the club win the MLS Supporters' Shield, which is rewarded to the team with the league's best regular-season record before his contract was terminated in early August 2024.
"We are saddened to hear of the tragic passing of former FC Cincinnati forward Aaron Boupendza earlier today at his home in China," FC Cincinnati said in a statement shared on its X account. "Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and teammates. He was a loved member of the FC Cincinnati family, and we offer our condolences to all who knew him.
"Rest in Peace, Aaron."
FEGAFOOT said Boupendza would be "remembered as a great striker who made his mark during the African Cup of Nations in Cameroon," referencing the winning goal he scored against Comoros, his eighth in international play, in 2022.