This archive report was first published on 14 August 2019.
Walter Martinez, a 37-year-old former Honduras international footballer, has died after suffering a heart attack. The incident occurred nine years after he represented Honduras at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
According to reports, Martinez was out with a teammate, Jose Chepo Fernandez, in New York when he suffered the heart attack. Fernandez, who was quoted in a Honduran newspaper, said they had stayed up late at an El Copaneco club in the Bronx area of the city before returning to Fernandez's home.
However, when Fernandez left his room a few hours later, he found Martinez on the floor and attempted to revive him. Unfortunately, he was unable to do so, and Fernandez immediately called an ambulance. Despite their efforts, nothing could be done to save Martinez's life.
Martinez had a notable football career, playing for several clubs including San Jose Earthquakes, Beijing Gouan in the Chinese Super League, and Spanish club Alaves. He also represented El Salvador side FAS before retiring from football in 2015.
During his time with Honduras, Martinez scored 12 goals in 49 appearances and played a key role in helping the team qualify for their second World Cup appearance at South Africa 2010.
The Honduran FA has confirmed his passing, and FIFA has recognized his contribution to the growth of football in Honduras. Supporters of Beijing Gouan, who Martinez played for last year, laid flowers in his honour in front of the club's stadium after hearing of his demise.
