By Samindra Kunti
September 29 – The former Millonarios player Jair Abonia, 53, has been shot dead in his native Colombia while coaching children. His death has caused shockwaves throughout Colombian football.
Abonia was murdered in broad daylight in the city of Jaimundi. He was shot three times by an unknown man, according to media reports.
A police investigation is ongoing. Andres Ovando, the head of police investigation, told reporters in Colombia: “Two men arrived to the pitch and attacked the man.”
Abonia had a lengthy career in South American football, playing for Colombian giants Millonarios and finishing his career in Venezuela.
After his playing days he became a coach at football coach.
Former club Millonarios tweeted: “Millionaires FC deeply regrets the death of our former player Jair Abonía. Peace in his grave and strength to his family. RIP.”
While Trujillanos expressed their condolences, tweeting: “@trufc expresses its deep sorrow at the death of the former player Jair Abonía and sends its condolences to his family and colleagues.”
Colombia has a history of violence against football players. Back in 1994, Andres Escobar was shot dead on his return from the 1994 World Cup in the USA, where his own-goal had knocked Colombia out of the competition.
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