The paintball community is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved and respected athletes, Jerardo “Jerry” Caro, who passed away unexpectedly in Los Angeles, California.
A standout player for the LA Ironmen, Jerry was known not only for his elite talent and competitive spirit, but for the kindness, humility, and camaraderie he brought to the sport.
Jerry’s passing has sent waves of grief through the global paintball community. As a longtime member of the legendary LA Ironmen — one of the oldest and most accomplished professional paintball teams in the world he played a crucial role in the team’s success and was widely regarded as a force on the field. With sharp instincts, a cool head under pressure, and an unwavering drive to win, Jerry earned the respect of teammates and opponents alike.
Beyond his technical skill and strategic acumen, Jerry was a teammate in the truest sense of the word — always the first to encourage others, the first to laugh, and the first to offer help.
He was passionate about the sport he loved and took pride in representing the Ironmen jersey with honor and integrity. His presence in the pit was just as valuable as his performance during games; he lifted the spirits of everyone around him and created a sense of unity that made his teams stronger.
Born and raised in Southern California, Jerry discovered paintball as a teenager and was instantly hooked. What started as a weekend hobby quickly turned into a lifelong pursuit, and over the years, Jerry rose through the ranks of competitive paintball to become a professional athlete.
His journey was marked by persistence, discipline, and an unshakable belief in the power of teamwork. Jerry helped mentor countless younger players, sharing his knowledge, offering advice, and ensuring the next generation of athletes felt welcomed and supported in the sport.
DYE Europe and the broader DYE Precision family, which sponsors the LA Ironmen, expressed their heartbreak at the news of Jerry’s death. In a public statement, they said: “Today we learned of the passing of Jerardo ‘Jerry’ Caro, a respected pro player from the LA Ironmen. On behalf of everyone at DYE Europe, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and all who knew him.”
Tributes from fellow players and fans have poured in on social media. Many have shared stories of Jerry’s generosity, his infectious laughter, and the energy he brought to every match. Whether competing at a national tournament or helping out at a local field, Jerry left a lasting impact on those who had the privilege of meeting him.
Off the field, Jerry was a devoted friend, a beloved family member, and someone who deeply valued connection and community. He had a quiet strength, a big heart, and a rare ability to make everyone feel seen and appreciated. While his achievements in professional paintball were considerable, it’s the way he treated others that people will remember most.
Jerry Caro’s passing is not just a loss to the sport but to everyone who believes in passion, perseverance, and kindness. His life was a testament to what it means to be part of something bigger than oneself to work, play, and grow together as a team, and to lift each other up along the way.
Details regarding a memorial service or celebration of life will be shared in the coming days. In the meantime, the paintball community continues to honor Jerry’s memory by carrying forward the values he embodied: dedication, respect, and love for the game.
Rest in peace, Jerry. You will be forever missed and never forgotten. GoFundMe
