Jerge Hoefdraad dead at 35: Ex-Ajax footballer shot in head while trying to break up fight at party
FORMER AJAX footballer Jerge Hoefdraad has tragically died aged 35.
Dutch outlet De Telegraaf claim the winger passed away after he was shot in the head while trying to break up an argument at a party.
The report adds that Hoefdraad was rushed to a hospital in Amsterdam for emergency surgery on Sunday but he sadly died on Monday morning.
Police are said to have identified the prime suspect, although no arrests have been made as of yet.
Hoefdraad, who spent time as a youth player at Eredivisie giants Ajax, turned out for domestic sides RKC Waalwijk, Almere City, and Telstar.
He was scheduled to start playing for Amsterdam amateur club ASC De Volewijckers next season following a two-year stint out of the game.
Ex-Liverpool star Ryan Babel led the tributes on social media as he took to Twitter to share his sadness at his compatriot’s death.
Waalwijk, who gave Hoefdraad his senior debut during his two years at the club, also posted their condolences.
They tweeted: “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of our former player Jerge.
“RKC Waalwijk sympathizes with his family, friends, and loved ones. Jerry, rest in peace.”
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SC Cambuur added: “It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of our former player Jerge Hoefdraad.
“On behalf of everyone at SC Cambuur We wish all family, friends and relatives a lot of strength.”
Almere said: “On behalf of our entire club, we wish all relatives a lot of strength. Jerry, rest in peace.”