Rest in peace, Anton.
Former Tottenham Hotspur and Portsmouth defender Anton Walkes has died at the age of 25 after a boat crash in Miami, Florida.
Walkes was found unconscious at the scene after two boats crashed on Wednesday afternoon near the Miami Marine Stadium, as per the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Miami Fire Rescue offered him CPR but he later passed away.
The 25-year-old was a part of Charlotte FC’s first-team squad after spending the previous two years at fellow MLS club, Atlanta United.
A statement from the Charlotte FC owner David Tepper said: “Everyone at Tepper Sports & Entertainment is devastated by the tragic passing of Anton Walkes.
“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 heartbreaking time. The Club offers its full support to all those impacted during this period of mourning.”
We are deeply saddened to share that Anton Walkes has tragically passed away this morning.
May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/8oUcHvWW6g
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) January 19, 2023
Charlotte’s sporting director, Zoran Krneta, also paid tribute.
“We are heartbroken from the loss of Anton Walkes, a truly incredible father, loving person, and outstanding human being,” he said.
“Anton embodied what it means to be a part of Charlotte Football Club and our entire community is grieving over this tragedy.
“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.”
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