Professional Call of Duty player Maurice ‘Fero’ Henriquez dead at 21

Players team confirmed cause of death as ‘multiple heart attacks’

Maurice 'Fero’ Henriquez of team Envy in action against team Gen G esports during the Call of Duty World League at Anaheim Convention Center on 14 June, 2019 in Anaheim, California (Getty Images)

Professional Call Of Duty gamer Maurice “Fero” Henriquez has died at the age of 21, according to a statement from his family on the player’s Twitter account.

Mr Henriquez’s family announced the tragic news through the platform on Tuesday morning.  

“This is Maurice's, aka F3ro, family. We are saddened to announce his passing,” the tweet reads.

Prior to the announcement, reports circulated from people who say they knew Mr Henriquez that he was struggling with depression and took his own life.

However, the family denied this claim and said that Mr Henriquez had neither suffered from depression or died by suicide.

They added: “We would like to state that he did not take his own life and he was not battling depression. We appreciate everyone's love and support. We would also appreciate privacy at this time.”

Mr Henriquez played for the Florida Mutineers, who posted a tribute to  on their Twitter account and confirming the players cause of death as “multiple heart attacks” and “not by suicide.”

“The Mutineers family sadly confirms today the sudden passing of Maurice ‘Fero’ Henriquez from multiple heart attacks,” the organisation said. “At his family’s request we report that his tragic death was not ruled a suicide.”

“This is an unfathomable loss for his family, friends and our Florida Mutineers team. He will be greatly missed everyday.”

Other professional players and friends played tribute to Mr Henriquez on Monday following the news, describing him as “one of the kindest hearts we have ever met.”

“We are deeply saddened to hear the news of Fero. His family and friends are in our thoughts and we extend our deepest sympathies during this difficult time,” Team Envy tweeted.

“You will forever be a part of our family. Rest In Peace, Fero.”

The 21-year-old had participated in the inaugural Call Of Duty League (CDL), which launched earlier this year, NME reported.

He had also won three home series events in CDL in Dallas, Minnesota, and Paris and ranked top eighth of the overall CDL Championship by the end of the season.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress and isolation, or are struggling to cope, The Samaritans offers support; you can speak to someone for free over the phone, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.  

For services local to you, the national mental health database – Hub of Hope – allows you to enter your postcode to search for organisations and charities who offer mental health advice and support in your area.