Kozhikode, September 21: Ahead of the upcoming season of Super League Kerala, Calicut FC faced an unforeseen tragic situation as their defender, Rijohn Jose, aged 29 has passed away after a road accident near Gandhi Road on Sunday night, leaving the Kerala football community in shock.

Rijohn, a native of Ollur in Thrissur, suffered serious chest injuries in the accident and was rushed to Aster MIMS Hospital, where he was declared dead. Gani Ahammed Nigam, who was travelling with Rijohn at the time, escaped serious injuries and is undergoing treatment.

Rijohn was set to represent Calicut FC in the upcoming season and had been part of the club’s team launch just four days before his untimely death. His sudden passing has left the club and his teammates mourning the loss of a player who remained an important part of the squad.

The defender played a key role in Calicut FC’s title-winning campaign in the 2024 Super League Kerala and had also represented the club in the Kerala Premier League. During his career, Rijohn featured in the Calcutta Football League and Karnataka Super Division League, turning out for clubs including Sreebhumi FC, George Telegraph SC, FC Deccan and Forca Kochi FC.

Known for his physical strength, commitment and defensive discipline, Rijohn earned respect from teammates and opponents throughout his career.

Following the post-mortem, his body will be kept at Kozhikode Corporation Stadium for public homage before being taken to Ollur. His last rites are scheduled to be held at 11 AM on Tuesday at his residence.

Rijohn is survived by his father, Jose MP, mother, Treesa Jose, and brother, Tijo MJ.