Fourth Ecuadorian Footballer Killed This Year After Being Shot at Home

Ecuadorian club Independiente del Valle announced the death of their young player, Miguel Nazareno, after he was shot at his home in the coastal city of Guayaquil.

The Ecuadorian club stated on its official Instagram account: "The Independiente del Valle family expresses its deep sorrow at the passing of Miguel Nazareno, a player from our academy. We extend our sincerest condolences and support to his family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time. His memory will remain eternal in the heart of our institution."

Police reported that Nazareno, 16, who played as a midfielder and forward, was killed by a stray bullet while at his home in the coastal city of Guayaquil. This tragic incident reflects the escalating waves of violence in the country.

Nazareno is the fourth footballer to be shot and killed in Ecuador this year, following Michael Valencia and Leandro Yepez from Exabpromo Costa, and Jonathan Gonzalez from 22 de Junio, both teams belonging to the second division league.