In this study, an uncommon case has been reported of an ectopic pheochromocytoma without the presence of any clinical symptoms. The radiological investigations showed a right retroperitoneal tumor without any kidney involvement. The diagnosis was established by biopsy and subsequent histological findings. In the course of surgery as the large tumor mass was being removed, tachycardia was observed which caused the resection to be performed as rapidly as possible. Once the tumor had been removed, bradycardia occurred, followed by cardiac arrest: although the latter was stabilized after cardiac massage, the patient died one hour after the operative field had been closed. In addition to this case report, the diagnosis, therapeutic strategy and prognosis regarding an ectopically located pheochromocytoma have been discussed.