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Aaron Boupendza, a former striker for FC Cincinnati of Major League Soccer, died on Wednesday, April 16, after falling from a building at his home in China. He was age 28.
A native of the Central African nation of Gabon, he signed with Cincinnati-based team in June 2023 as a designated player, arriving after the club transferred top scorer Brenner.
"Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and loved ones," FC Cincinnati wrote in a post on social media. "He was a loved member of the FC Cincinnati family, and we offer our condolences to all who knew him. Rest in Peace, Aaron."
In his debut season, he scored five regular-season goals and played a key role in the club’s Eastern Conference title run and Supporters’ Shield win. He also scored in a playoff shootout victory over the New York Red Bulls that fall.
Major League Soccer terminated Boupendza’s contract in August 2024 after an extended absence. Earlier that year, he suffered a broken jaw during a fight and missed several matches.
Before arriving in the US, Boupendza played for clubs in Turkey, France, Portugal, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. His most prolific season came with Hatayspor in Turkey’s Süper Lig, where he led the league in scoring with 22 goals in 2020–21.
Boupendza most recently signed with Rapid București of Romania in September 2024.
Born in Moanda, Gabon, Boupendza began his professional career with CF Mounana before joining Bordeaux in France.
Boupendza’s death is under investigation by authorities in China.
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