Brazilian footballer Wanderson Brandao de Sousa, 18, shot dead in family home while brother was cleaning gun
A teenager footballer has been shot dead in his family home - reportedly by his brother.
Wanderson Brandao de Sousa was fatally wounded by a firearm at his family’s home in Goias, Brazil, according to police.
At the time of publication, police believe the shot was fired accidentally by Wanderson’s 16-year-old brother while he was cleaning a rifle.
According to reports, the bullet struck Wanderson in the neck, killing him instantly. The firearm has been seized by police, though it remains unclear who owned it.
Wanderson played left-back for Aragoiania FC, having risen through the ranks of the club’s academy. In the aftermath of his death, the club’s sporting director, Silvan Rodrigues Castro, suspended all team activities.
A club spokesperson said: “Wanderson Brandao de Sousa. Our condolences to family and friends. May God console all our hearts.”
Commenting on the club statement online, Aragoiania resident Jose Guapo added: “Aragoiania is in shock. Wanderson was a promising athlete who had just begun playing for the senior team.
“His death, caused by an accidental gunshot from his younger brother, is a tragedy for us all.”