Importance Score: 65 / 100 🔴
Peruvian Footballer Dies After On-Field Collision
In a tragic turn of events, tributes are pouring in for Helar Gonzales Altamirano, a 21-year-old Peruvian footballer who has died following a devastating collision during a match. The young athlete was critically injured on the pitch and subsequently passed away in hospital, leaving his family and the football community in mourning. This incident underscores the inherent risks in contact sports and has sent shockwaves through Peruvian football. The Copa Peru match has become the backdrop for this heartbreaking loss, highlighting the fragility of life even in the passion of the game.
Fatal Clash on the Field
The harrowing incident occurred during a Copa Peru game. Altamirano suffered severe injuries after colliding with the opposing team’s goalkeeper while contesting a long pass. Video footage circulating online depicts the distressing scene as concerned teammates and staff surrounded the player while he received immediate medical attention on the field.
Immediate Medical Response and Transfer to Hospital
Following the impact, Altamirano was promptly attended to by paramedics at the stadium. He was then carefully transferred to a waiting ambulance on a stretcher and rushed to a hospital in Moyobamba, a city in northern Peru. He was reportedly unconscious at the time of transportation.
Family’s Agony and Confirmation of Death
The footballer’s family endured a period of intense anguish following the Sunday collision. His brother, Eliceo, had appealed for prayers via social media on Tuesday, holding onto hope for Helar’s recovery. However, the family’s worst fears were realised when Eliceo confirmed on Thursday that Helar had tragically succumbed to his injuries earlier that day. The cause of death was attributed to a ruptured artery in his head as a result of the on-field impact.
Club’s Heartfelt Tribute
Real Titan Nc, Altamirano’s club, issued a statement expressing their profound sorrow. “Rest in peace, friend,” the club declared, commemorating their player’s passion for football and devotion to his family. The statement acknowledged the immense pain felt by the team and the wider football fraternity, offering “great strength to your family at this difficult time,” and assuring them of unwavering support from “Titan” and “the football family.”

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Online Memorial and Funeral Arrangements
The club further shared poignant content online, including live footage of the hearse carrying Altamirano’s coffin to a funeral home, preceding his wake. A video montage celebrating Altamirano’s goals from the current year was also released, serving as a digital memorial to his promising career cut short. His funeral is scheduled to take place on Friday.
Eyewitness Account from the Sidelines
Jose, Helar’s father, was present at the match, witnessing the tragic event unfold from the stands. Visibly distraught, he recounted his experience to a local television channel, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support during this “terrible pain.” He shared his son’s lifelong aspiration to excel in football, noting Helar’s unwavering ambition to reach the highest levels of the sport. The grieving father believes Helar’s team will dedicate future victories in his memory.
Recounting the Moment of Impact
Jose described the initial confusion upon witnessing the collision, stating he didn’t immediately recognise Helar as the injured player. Driven by paternal instinct, he attempted to reach his son on the pitch, but was prevented from doing so. He was unable to see Helar again until reaching the hospital, where his son was already in critical condition.
Football Federation’s Condolences
The Peruvian Football Federation added to the chorus of tributes, conveying their condolences via social media platform X. “We regret the death of Helar Gonzales Altamirano,” they posted, extending “deepest condolences to his family, friends and Real Titan Club,” on behalf of the national football body.