26-year-old Footballer shot dead in his home

A 26-year-old footballer was shot dead in his home country of Panama after a group of gunmen opened fire on civilians, with the player caught in the crossfire.  

Panama international defender, Gilberto Hernandez, lost his life on Sunday, September 3rd in the city of Colon after gunmen launched fire on a group of civilians.

Gilberto Hernandez was reportedly caught in the crossfire.

The Panama Football League, as well as the Panama federation, confirmed the report through an official statement, stating;

“[We] extend condolences to his family and loved ones, as well as to the entire CAI and Panamanian football family.”

On Monday, the national police issued a statement confirming the apprehension of a suspect believed to be responsible for Hernandez’s murder, which occurred in the province of Colon.

Authorities have launched a thorough investigation into the incident, seeking justice for the fallen football player.

The province of Colon, home to approximately 300,000 people, has been grappling with rising violence. Last year alone, it recorded 102 homicides, a slight decrease from the previous year but still a cause for concern.

Authorities attribute much of this violence to the activities of rival drug gangs operating in the area.