Former Pro Athlete Falls 11 Stories To His Death, Case Being Treated As ‘Suspicious’: Reports

An ex-Major League Soccer star who helped lead FC Cincinnati to a Supporters’ Shield victory a couple of years ago is dead at the age of 28.

The circumstances surrounding Aaron Boupendza’s fatal 11-story fall in China are sparking international intrigue.

According to Breitbart:

The Gabon-born international had joined Chinese club Zhejiang FC, based in the city of Hangzhou, from Romanian outfit Rapid Bucharest in January.

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TMZ Sports details local police have launched an investigation into Boupendza’s death, reportedly treating it as “suspicious.”

The Gabonese forward began his soccer career in 2015 and played for numerous clubs … including FC Cincinnati, which he helped win the Eastern Conference and the Supporters’ Shield, given to the team with the best regular season record, the outlet notes.

FC Cincinnati moved quickly to honor Boupendza and his contributions.

The news has spread far and wide via social media:

We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Aaron Boupendza, who once wore the Hatayspor jersey in the Turkish Süper Lig.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, as well as to Zhejiang FC and all who loved him. pic.twitter.com/nbGv9KbP3c

— Fenerbahçe English (@Fenerbahce_EN) April 16, 2025

We are saddened to hear of the tragic passing of former FC Cincinnati forward Aaron Boupendza earlier today at his home in China.

Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and loved ones. He was a loved member of the FC Cincinnati family, and we offer our condolences to all who… pic.twitter.com/QvZaOsGDzv

— FC Cincinnati (@fccincinnati) April 16, 2025

In the 9th minute of tonight’s match, Zhejiang FC supporters spontaneously chanted Boupendza’s name in Chinese as a heartfelt tribute to him. pic.twitter.com/nGlKG3qzh8

— In Zhejiang (@InZhejiang) April 16, 2025

ESPN also covered the development:

“Now the club is fully cooperating with the relevant departments to carry out the investigation,” the statement added.

Boupendza joined Major League Soccer’s FC Cincinnati as a designated player in summer 2023 for a reported $7 million transfer fee. He made an immediate impact, scoring five goals in 10 games to help the club win the MLS Supporters’ Shield as the team with the best regular-season record.

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But his contract was terminated early in August 2024.

Here’s some additional coverage: