A youth baseball coach died after being shot in front of his wife and children outside a barbershop in Birmingham, Alabama, in an event that has shocked the local sports community.

Birmingham Police reported that Magdaleno Mendoza Jr., 36, was charged with involuntary manslaughter by provocation in connection with the death of Jorge Fonseca, which occurred Saturday at a shopping center located at 260 West Valley Avenue.

According to authorities, Fonseca and Mendoza previously knew each other. The two got into an argument that led to a physical fight outside the barbershop. During the altercation, Mendoza allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Fonseca.

After the attack, the suspect fled the scene. However, he was arrested by police officers approximately 15 minutes after the crime.

Alabama law provides for the charge of homicide by provocation when a person recklessly causes the death of another in a context of “sudden emotional outburst.”

A loss that hits the sports community

Fonseca's wife and four children were inside the barbershop when the shooting occurred, according to local media. Authorities have not released any further details about what happened.

Fonseca was a coach for the Wow Factor 205 youth baseball organization, where he was widely recognized for his work with children and adolescents.

In a message spread on social networks, the organization highlighted that Fonseca was much more than a coach.

“He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud son, a caring brother, a loyal friend and a mentor to countless young athletes,” the statement said.

The organization added that the coach not only taught baseball, but also values ​​such as respect, responsibility, perseverance and character.

“He had a unique ability to make every child feel important, valued and capable of achieving more than they thought possible,” the message stated.

Consternation among family members and players

Fonseca's death has caused deep shock among the families and young athletes of Alabama's traveling baseball community.

Troy Whetstone, a friend of the victim, told local media that he had shared with Fonseca and his son just the night before the crime.

"A lot of kids have taken it very badly, especially my son. I think he saw Coach George as a second father," he said.

Whetstone also highlighted the impact Fonseca had on the lives of young players and their families.

"It was special. Having coaches like that means a lot to the parents and the kids," he said.

Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the homicide.