Gabonese international striker Aaron Boupendza has tragically died at the age of 28 after falling from the 11th floor of a building in Hangzhou, China, where he was playing for Zhejiang FC. The Gabon Football Federation (FEGAFOOT) confirmed his death on April 16, 2025. Chinese authorities have launched an investigation to determine whether the fall was accidental, suicidal, or due to foul play.

Boupendza had a distinguished career, earning 35 caps and scoring 8 goals for Gabon. He gained significant recognition during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, notably scoring the winning goal against Comoros. At the club level, he was the Turkish Süper Lig's top scorer in the 2020–21 season with Hatayspor, netting 22 goals. His career included stints in France, Portugal, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United States (with FC Cincinnati), Romania, and China. ​

Tributes have poured in from the football community. Gabon President Brice Oligui Nguema expressed his condolences, mourning the loss of a talented striker. Former teammates Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina also paid heartfelt tributes, highlighting Boupendza's talent and character.

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Boupendza's untimely death has left the football world in mourning, remembering him as a gifted striker who made significant contributions both internationally and at the club level.​