Mario Pineida: Barcelona SC Star Shot and Killed in Gang Hit

• Barcelona SC star Mario Pineida was killed during a shooting incident in his native country of Ecuador
• The player's club confirmed that the 33-year-old defender Pineida was shot at alongside his mother in
• Barcelona SC released a touching tribute as they promised to honour his memory and also help his family

Barcelona SC defender Mario Pineida passed on at the young age of 33 after being shot in Guayaquil, Ecuador, on Wednesday, December 17, 2025.

According to local reports, the incident occurred when two assailants on a motorcycle opened fire outside a shop in the northern part of the city, hitting Pineida, his mother, and another woman.

Ecuador’s interior ministry confirmed that a specialised police team has been deployed to carry out an investigation. Guayaquil has emerged as a focal point for gang-related violence and narcotics trafficking, with 1,900 killings recorded between January and September, the highest toll anywhere in the country.

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Pineida earned nine international appearances for Ecuador between 2014 and 2021. He started his professional career with Independiente del Valle and joined Guayaquil-based Barcelona SC in 2016, while also having loan spells at Fluminense and El Nacional during his playing career.

Pineida was shot and killed in Ecuador.

Barcelona SC released an official statement on their social media pages confirming the death of Pineida and sending a condolence message to his family.

"To our members and supporters, Barcelona Sporting Club informs you, with deep sorrow, that we have been officially notified of the death of our player Mario Pineida, which occurred this evening," the club stated.

"This regrettable news deeply saddens everyone who forms part of the institution, and we express our heartfelt condolences to his family.

"In the coming hours, we will provide timely information regarding the arrangements for a memorial service in his memory. We ask our members, supporters, and the public to join us in lifting him in prayer for the rest of his soul and to offer strength to his family during this moment of immense pain."

In related news, young footballer Finley Bone tragically passed away after being struck by lightning at a sporting complex, while another young player lost his life after his motorbike collided with a cow.

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Here is what fans are saying about the death of Pineida on social media.

Kellen Soares said:

"So sad, I was in Ecuador just 6 years ago and loved it, never really felt unsafe in almost 3 months. How quickly things can change in a country 💔."

Teo Watchinator shared:

"Terrible news. Condolences to his family and friends. God bless them."

Kunle Ade wrote:

"Oh my goodness, crime everywhere in the world 🌎 rest well, Legend."

Papoma Vene reacted:

"Very sad. May his soul rest in peace 🙏"

Christian Denoyagel commented:

"Heartbreaking news 💔 A life taken far too soon. Our deepest condolences to Mario Pineida’s family, his wife, his mother, his teammates at Barcelona SC, and the entire Ecuadorian football community. May he rest in peace, and may his loved ones find strength in this unimaginable moment."

Amachree Bomate added:

"A dark day for Barcelona SC and the entire nation. 🇪🇨 Mario Pineida wasn't just a player...he was a warrior on the flank and a true servant to the yellow shirt. To lose him, and have his family attacked alongside him is an unspeakable evil. The football world needs to stand up against this violence. We don't just want goals anymore...we want our players to stay alive. Fly high, Mario. You will never be forgotten by the Idolo. 🕊️💛"

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Zimbabwean footballer dies

Briefly News previously reported that a Zimbabwean footballer passed away in a tragic road accident in Zvishavhane.

The country's football federation, Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) sent its message of condolence to the family of the footballer who had earned one cap for the senior football national team.

Source: Briefly News