A shootout in Colon claimed the life of Gilberto Hernández, a football player for Independiente de Panamá and the Panamá National Team. Police reports claim that Hernandez and six other nearby pedestrians were shot at by two unknown individuals who got out of a car. Despite being taken by ambulance to a neighbouring hospital, the defender's passing was not reported until hours later.
Gilberto’s father openly demanded that the murderers turn themselves in and assured him that he would forgive them. " I forgive those who did that to my son, but enough of the violence," he said in a viral video. He also stated, "Many talented players in Colón have lost their lives. I call on the authorities to start projects to rescue youth from violence ."
The club which he played for also released a statement about his death. The club stated, "Club Atlético Independiente Panamá regrets the death of our player. We join the pain of his children, family and friends. He was a top leader and two-time champion," they stated on their social media handle.
At the Monumental Stadium in March 2023, Gilberto Hernández played in a friendly match between the Argentine National Team and Panama. On that occasion, the defender asked to take pictures with two world champions he admired, Lionel Messi and Angel Di Mara.
