Helar Gonzales Altamirano, 21, was a rising young soccer star. Tragically, he passed away after crashing into an adversary during a Copa Peru game on April 8. Gonzales Altamirano then waged an epic and honorable war with the opposing goalkeeper for the loose ball. Sadly, this bout resulted in a career-ending traumatic brain injury that ultimately claimed his life.
The Peruvian Football Federation extended their condolences to the family of the young athlete via a statement released on April 9. Real Titan club announced the tragic news on social media. The post included video of Gonzales Altamirano’s casket arriving at a funeral home. The horrific attack has understandably rocked the soccer world to its foundation. Players and fans across the world are mourning and sending thoughts and prayers.
Incidentally, witnesses noted that Gonzales Altamirano’s father was in the stands to enjoy the match. He shared that devastation in an interview with a local television station—that the future was so bright and unburdened for his son.
“He wanted to be a great footballer from a very young age,” – Gonzales Altamirano’s father
This deep trauma is described movingly by a survivor family member.
“The main thing is his brain. There’s lots of blood on his brain,” – Altamirano’s cousin
Despite the horror on the field, the full extent of the injury was only realized after the game when Gonzales Altamirano was taken to hospital. His father described the terrifying sight of not being able to identify his son amid the confusion.
“I thought at first when I saw the clash that it was another player and didn’t initially connect that it was Helar,” – Gonzales Altamirano’s father
In addition to the emotional toll that escalated as he lost sight of his son, until they arrived at that hospital, and he was told that the child was in grave danger.
“But they wouldn’t let me and I didn’t see him until we got to the hospital, when he was already critical,” – Gonzales Altamirano’s father
In a statement following the tragedy, Real Titan FC honored Gonzales Altamirano’s legacy, emphasizing his passion for soccer and devotion to his family. They reiterated their pledge to stand with his heartbroken family as they go through this unspeakably painful experience.
“Rest in peace, my friend. We will remember you for your love of soccer and your love for your family. You took the lead and left us with great pain,” – Real Titan FC
“We extend our deepest condolences to his family,” said The Peruvian Football Federation in a statement. They profoundly mourn the loss of Gonzales Altamirano and send their condolences to his family, friends, and the Real Titan Club.