Charlotte FC defender Anton Walkes, 25, dies after boating accident

Charlotte FC has announced that defender Anton Walkes has died at age 25.

The Miami Herald reported that Walkes was involved in a boating accident on Wednesday, with two boats crashing near Miami Marine Stadium.

"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," Charlotte FC owner David Tepper said in a statement.

"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."

Walkes came up through Tottenham’s youth academy in his native England before he signed with Atlanta United ahead of the club’s 2017 expansion season.

The defender returned to England in 2018 when he signed with Portsmouth, and went back to Atlanta United in 2020 for a second spell with the team.

Walkes left Atlanta to join Charlotte FC ahead of the club’s debut season in MLS in 2022. The defender played a major role for the club, starting 21 games last season.