Aaron Boupendza, a former player in Major League Soccer (MLS), has tragically passed away at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th story of a building in China. The Gabon national team announced the news of Boupendza’s passing on Wednesday.

At the time of his death, Boupendza was playing for Chinese Super League club Zhejiang FC. In an Instagram post honoring Boupendza, the club indicated he died at his residence. An investigation is currently ongoing, and the club stated it is cooperating with authorities.

Boupendza spent parts of two seasons with FC Cincinnati in MLS. In 2023, he played 10 games and scored six goals, while in the following season, he netted two goals in 14 appearances. His contract was mutually terminated in August 2024.

FC Cincinnati released a heartfelt statement regarding Boupendza’s death, expressing deep condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones: “We are saddened to hear of the tragic passing of former FC Cincinnati forward Aaron Boupendza earlier today at his home in China. He was a beloved member of the FC Cincinnati family.”

Boupendza also represented his home country of Gabon in 35 international matches, during which he scored eight goals, including one in the 2016 African Nations Championship.