Tearful Reunion Turns Tragic: Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s Family Faces Heartbreaking Loss After Father’s Return from Ukraine……
Montréal, Canada – July 5, 2025 — What was meant to be a joyful reunion turned into an unimaginable tragedy for the family of Toronto Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr., after his father, baseball legend Vladimir Guerrero Sr., died just an hour before reuniting with his family in Montréal. The heartbreaking news comes after Guerrero Sr. spent nearly two years volunteering on the front lines in war-torn Ukraine, a decision that surprised many given his legacy in Major League Baseball.
The Guerrero family had planned a private, emotional gathering at a downtown Montréal hotel where Vladimir Sr. was expected to reunite with his son, grandchildren, and extended family. For months, they had prepared for this moment, with Jr. often mentioning in interviews how he longed to see his father again after the long separation. However, tragedy struck just an hour before the anticipated reunion, when Guerrero Sr. reportedly collapsed due to complications related to injuries sustained during his service in Ukraine.
According to sources close to the family, Guerrero Sr. had been quietly involved in humanitarian and protective efforts in Ukraine since mid-2023. While the exact nature of his involvement remains unclear, it is believed he worked with international volunteers assisting displaced civilians, occasionally putting himself in harm’s way to protect others. Despite multiple close calls and minor injuries during his time in Eastern Europe, he insisted on remaining active until safe zones were reestablished in the region.
“He was a hero on the field and an even bigger hero off of it,” said family spokesperson and longtime friend, Carlos Mejía. “Vladimir Sr. never stopped thinking about people in need. He had a huge heart. He wanted to do something more meaningful, especially after retiring from the game. None of us expected him to be involved so directly in such a dangerous place, but he believed he was doing the right thing.”
Guerrero Sr. returned to Canada early Saturday morning aboard a military-chartered flight alongside several other international volunteers. He appeared visibly weakened, though reportedly in good spirits. Paramedics were called to his hotel room just under an hour before the reunion after he complained of severe chest pain. Despite attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead on the scene. Preliminary reports suggest cardiac complications, likely exacerbated by the physical and emotional strain endured during his time abroad.
News of Guerrero Sr.’s death sent shockwaves through both the sports and humanitarian communities. Fans gathered outside Rogers Centre in Toronto, where an impromptu vigil was held. Dozens left flowers, jerseys, and handwritten notes thanking the elder Guerrero not just for his contributions to baseball, but for his sacrifice and courage in Ukraine.
Toronto Blue Jays officials confirmed that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was granted indefinite leave from the team to grieve with his family. In a brief statement released by the club, Jr. said:
“He was my hero before the world knew him. He’s still my hero now. He gave everything he had — to his country, to our family, and to people he never even met. I will love him forever.”
Major League Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred also issued a statement, calling Guerrero Sr. “a legend who transcended the sport,” and expressing condolences to the Guerrero family.
“Vladimir Guerrero Sr. embodied the best of baseball: heart, dedication, and passion. His post-career humanitarian efforts were a reflection of his deep character and kindness. His loss is not just a loss for baseball, but for the world.”
Guerrero Sr., originally from the Dominican Republic, played 16 seasons in Major League Baseball, earning nine All-Star selections and a place in the Hall of Fame in 2018. Known for his unmatched batting skills and cannon-like throwing arm, he retired as one of the most beloved players of his generation.
The family has requested privacy as they make arrangements for a public memorial in both Montréal and the Dominican Republic. A private funeral is expected to take place later this week, with several former teammates and international dignitaries planning to attend.
In the wake of this tragedy, Guerrero Sr.’s legacy only grows — not just as a baseball legend, but as a father, a humanitarian, and a symbol of courage in the face of global crisis.