Yimvert Berroteran, an 18-year-old football talent, was confirmed dead on 26/6, becoming one of more than 920 fatalities from the twin earthquakes that struck Venezuela on 24/6. The Venezuelan National Team and the Venezuelan Football Federation (FVF) announced his passing.

Berroteran had a bright future, having played in the U-17 World Cup in Doha, Qatar months ago and recently joining the national U-20 team. He was also called up to the first team of Universidad Central de Venezuela, a leading club in the capital Caracas, making 6 appearances in late 2025, when the team won the Venezuelan cup, and early this season.

Player Yimvert Berroteran during a match at the U-17 World Cup in 2025. Photo: FIFA

Venezuelan journalist Jair Pineda reported that Berroteran, a player for Universidad Central de Venezuela, was trapped for about one day in the rubble of a collapsed building. "Rescue teams worked for over 24 hours to save him, but Berroteran unfortunately passed away, and his body was recovered", Pineda said.

The FVF expressed deep sorrow, stating, "Venezuelan football is suffering immense sorrow as we bid farewell to the young man who represented our nation with pride and dedication."

The earthquake also claimed the lives of young players Victor Palacios and Razan Sijaa, according to the FVF and their respective clubs. Additionally, Zulia club defender Hector Bello's partner died shielding their child during the earthquake, Bello shared on social media. He added that his daughter and her aunt are receiving hospital treatment.

The devastating quakes, measuring 7,2 and 7,5 magnitude, resulted in 920 confirmed deaths and at least 3,300 injuries, Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez confirmed. The military deployed forces to La Guaira, one of the most affected areas.

Tom Fletcher, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, stated the same day that over 50,000 people are missing after the disaster. He warned the death toll could rise.

In response to the tragedy, many countries worldwide have pledged aid and deployed search and rescue teams to Venezuela. The US announced it is sending two naval ships, transport planes, and helicopters, mobilizing USD 150 million in assistance. Washington also suspended economic sanctions against Caracas to facilitate rescue efforts.

By Huyen Le (CNN, Sun)