CAR TRAGEDY
Diego ‘El Puma’ Chavez dead at 28: Mexican striker killed in tragic car crash as his club FC Juarez lead tributes
The striker has been heralded for his joy, enthusiasm and dedication
MEXICAN striker Diego Chavez has died aged just 28.
The FC Juarez striker died died in a car crash in the early hours of Wednesday morning, his club confirmed on social media.
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The Mexican club released a statement on Facebook paying tribute to the forward.
It read: "With deep sadness we inform the entire FC Juárez community that our player Diego "El Puma" Chávez died early this morning on February 14 in a car accident.
"During his time at FC Juárez, El Puma was characterised by his joy, enthusiasm, simplicity, and willingness, as well as his spirit of dedication and love for our colours."
Chavez, who was nicknamed 'The Puma', made 46 appearances for Juarez, netting three times in the process.
The Mexican first division side signed the target-man in February of last year after a spell in Peru with Carlos A. Manucci.
Fans have been left heartbroken by the news with many taking to social media to pay tribute to Chavez.
One wrote: "Rest in peace Puma and may light always shine on you!"
A second added: "Rest in peace Puma, you always played every game with a lot of energy. Always Bravo!"
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A third wrote: "Rest in peace Puma. Thank you for your dedication, your passion, and your love for this team!"
And a fourth commented: "What a great shame. He was a player who defended our shirt with great pride. Rest in peace dear Diego."
Reports have suggested that Chavez was left trapped in his car after losing control and colliding with a sign.
FC Juarez are scheduled to face Club Puebla on Saturday in the league and it has not yet known if the game will still go ahead.