Charlotte FC Defender Anton Walkes passed away early Thursday morning from the injuries he sustained in a boat collision off the coast of Miami. He is 25 years old.
Walkes was found unconscious and taken to hospital following a collision between two boats Wednesday near the Miami Marine Stadium basin, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
The state agency said in a statement that Walkes was operating one of the boats that crashed.
It is unclear if anyone else was injured. The agency’s investigation is ongoing.
Charlotte FC confirmed his death on Thursday morning.
“We are deeply saddened to announce that Anton Walkes tragically passed away this morning,” the club said in a statement. “You can rest in peace.”
Charlotte FC owner David Tepper said everyone at the club is “devastated by the tragic passing of Anton Walkes.”
“He was a wonderful son, father, partner and teammate, whose joyful approach to life touched everyone he met,” Tepper said in the statement. club father.
Walkes joined Charlotte in the club’s first MLS season in 2022. He played 23 games in 21 appearances and had five shots on target this past season.
“Anton has made those around him better people in all areas of life and represents Charlotte FC to the highest standards both on and off the pitch,” said Tepper.
Charlotte’s teammates Jaylin Lindsey He said he was heartbroken when he heard the news.
“Fly high my brother, you are the best teammate I could ask for,” Lindsey tweeted. “Love you man.”
A native of London, Walkes graduated from the Tottenham Hotspur academy (2013-17) and played for MLS teams Atlanta and Charlotte, who selected Walkes in the 2021 expansion draft.
Major League Soccer said in a statement: “There are no words to express the sadness of everyone in Major League Soccer today following the news of the tragic passing of Charlotte FC’s Anton Walkes. Anton is a talented and dedicated player loved by his teammates and fans.”
Tottenham Hotspur also tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player Anton Walkes. The thoughts of everyone at the Club are with his family and friends at this time. this is very sad.”
Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.
