Jesús “Chucho” Alberto López Ortiz is still being mourned after the soccer player was viciously killed by a crocodile near the town of Santa Cruz.
The Costa Rican soccer player was attacked by a crocodile after jumping into the Canas River to cool off from the heat. Shocking footage captured the moment when the reptile grabbed his body in its jaws, ultimately leading to his tragic demise.
It remains uncertain whether he drowned or succumbed to the animal’s pressure during the attack. To retrieve Lopez’s remains, the police had to use firearms to shoot down the crocodile.
Ortiz played for Deportivo Rio Canas, an amateur club in Carrillo. Deportivo Rio Canas issued a statement confirming his passing.
“With deep sorrow, we make public the death of our player Jesus Lopez Ortiz (Chucho) may God enjoy. Rest in Peace Chucho, we join the pain of all your family,” the club said.
Costa Rica is home to at least two types of crocodiles, including the American crocodile which is classed as an endangered species globally.
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Another statement added: “Good morning, people of Rio Cañas, neighbours, we hereby inform you that a simple number has been enabled to be able to help the family of Jesus Lopez ‘Chucho’ for what unfortunate has happened today, who wishes to collaborate please make your help at [number redacted] in the name of Luis Carlos Montes, also if your aid is physical, whether it is groceries or some other type of help, you can go leave it at the house of Don Daniel Serrano, Doña Tica will be receiving every help that comes out of her heart. Thank you so much in advance. God bless you.”
The club’s manager, Luis Carlos Montes, is also organizing a collection to support the grieving family.
Lopez Ortiz was just 29 years old and left behind two children in the wake of this tragic death.
We send many prayers to his family and friends as they deal with this unfortunate circumstance.
