Anton Walkes, a defender for Major League Soccer team Charlotte FC, died Thursday at age 25 after a boat he was operating crashed into another vessel off the coast of Miami, authorities said.
Walkes was found unconscious and taken to a hospital after a collision between two boats around 3 p.m. on Wednesday near the Miami Marine Stadium basin, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
“Mr. Walkes was taken to an area hospital where he later died from his injuries. Our thoughts are with the family, friends and fans of Mr. Walkes during this difficult time,” the FWC said in a statement via CNN.
It was unclear whether anyone else was injured. The agency’s investigation is ongoing.
Walkes was in Florida with Charlotte FC for a pre-season training camp in Fort Lauderdale with his club, according to the Charlotte Observer.
Charlotte FC owner David Tepper said in a club statement, “He was a tremendous son, father, partner and teammate whose joyous approach to life touched everyone he met.”
“Anton made those around him better people in all areas of life and represented Charlotte FC to the highest standard both on and off the pitch. He will be greatly missed by many and our thoughts and prayers are with Anton’s family during this heart-breaking time. The Club offers its full support to all those impacted during this period of mourning,” Tepper said.
“We are heartbroken from the loss of Anton Walkes, a truly incredible father, loving person, and outstanding human being. Anton embodied what it means to be a part of Charlotte Football Club and our entire community is grieving over this tragedy,” said Charlotte FC’s sporting director Zoran Krneta.
“The impact he made in the locker room and throughout Charlotte will never be forgotten. We are thinking of his lovely family during this time and will support them fully in every way imaginable.”
The professional player began his career with English Premier League club Tottenham and also played for Portsmouth before signing with Atlanta United in the MLS, where he spent three seasons.
Walkes then joined Charlotte for the club’s debut MLS season in 2022. He played in 23 matches with 21 starts and had five shots on goal this past season.
He appeared in 140 matches and had six goals to his record.
Walkes is survived by his daughter, Ayla, whom he shared with his girlfriend Alexis.
