NEED TO KNOW
Teen soccer player Miguel Nazareno has died at the age of 16
The 16-year-old was fatally struck by a stray bullet at his home in Ecuador, according to the Associated Press
His team, youth academy Independiente del Valle, shared their “deep sorrow” at his passing in a post on Instagram
A teenage soccer player has died after being hit by a stray bullet while at his home in Ecuador.
On Wednesday, Nov. 5, police said that Miguel Nazareno, 16, had died after being struck at his residence in Guayaquil, according to the Associated Press.
Following Nazareno’s death, his youth academy, Independiente del Valle, penned an emotional tribute to their late player on Instagram.
“The family of Independiente del Valle expresses its deep sorrow for the sensitive passing of Miguel Nazareno, player of our quarry in Independiente Juniors. 💙🖤,” they wrote in Spanish. “Miguel was in his home, when he sadly fell victim to the insecurity that affects our country.”
They added, “We extend our deepest condolences and all our support to his family, friends and colleagues at this difficult time.”
FrankvandenBergh/Getty
Stock image of Guayaquil, Ecuador
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“Your memory will always remain in the heart of our institution. 💐,” the team concluded.
PEOPLE has contacted the Ecuadorian police for comment.
The post also included black and white photos of Nazareno playing on the field.
“Much strength and blessings to the family 🙏🕊️,” one person wrote in the comment section, while another added, “Rest in peace mijo 😢 😢.”
Nazareno played as a midfielder and forward, according to the AP.
The teen is reportedly the fourth soccer player to fall victim to gun violence in Ecuador in 2025, with Maicol Valencia, Leandro Yépez and Jonathan González also being killed by gunfire in September, the outlet reported.
While Valencia and Yépez were members of Exapromo Costa, González played for 22 de Junio.
Last month, PEOPLE reported that a 14-year-old was killed after a stray bullet hit him while playing video games in his bedroom in Missouri.
In a statement to PEOPLE, St. Louis County Police Department said “the preliminary investigation indicates an unknown subject or subjects fired shots in the area, and the victim was struck.”
“The investigation revealed Morgan was inside his home when he was hit by a stray bullet from outside,” they added.
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