Football coach dead following early morning collision

Co-founder and former head coach for Tigers Football Club Gonzalo McLaughlin has passed away following an early morning collision in Bodden Town.

According to the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) just after 4:30AM Saturday morning (August 8th), emergency personnel responded to a report of a single vehicle collision involving a white Subaru Sunbar in the vicinity of Long Fellow Circle.

Police said the 39-year-old was trapped in the vehicle due to the impact of the collision. McLaughlin was extricated from the vehicle by the Cayman Islands Fire Service and transported to the Cayman Islands Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

“The Cayman Islands Football Association is deeply saddened to hear the passing of Gonzalo McLaughlin,” said CIFA president and former Tigers FC coach Alfredo Whittaker. “Gonzalo made a big impact on Cayman football especially within the youth programs he ran. Our thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.”

McLaughlin was also known for his involvement in directing at risk youth towards a positive path. He often times allowed the average Joe off the street to play for his football team despite having little to no experience on the pitch according to Whittaker.

In addition, officials told Cay 03 Sports a “moment of silence” will be given in honour of McLaughlin before of the final CIFA premier league matches kickoff.