Anton Walkes / Photo Credit: James Williamson - AMA/Getty Images
Anton Walkes, Charlotte FC Player, Dies At 25 In Florida Boat Crash
Walkes was only 25.
by Aria Bell
The Charlotte Football Club is suffering a tragic loss as defender Anton Walkes has died after a boating accident in South Florida Thursday morning.
According to the Associated Press, the 25-year-old operated a boat in a two-vessel collision near the Miami Marine Stadium. He died from his injuries after being taken to a nearby hospital. Charlotte FC confirmed the news of Walkes' death in a press release.
"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," said club owner David Tepper in a prepared 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."
The team also tweeted the news on Twitter, honoring their beloved team member. In addition, Charlotte FC's website was updated with a picture of Walkes following the announcement.
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 FC Sporting Director Zoran Krneta shared his thoughts:
"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," Krneta said in a statement. "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."
Fans and other sports teams shared their shock and condolences in response to the news, including two of his former teams, Tottenham Hotspur in England and Atlanta United FC.
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 incredibly sad time 💙 pic.twitter.com/NCPvFU4A6v
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 19, 2023
Statement below on behalf of Atlanta United on the passing of Anton Walkes. pic.twitter.com/JcuBxeAXfB
— Atlanta United FC (@ATLUTD) January 19, 2023
Sending all our love to the CLT community and Anton's family 💙
— St Louis CITY SC (@stlCITYsc) January 19, 2023
Our deepest condolences to Anton's loved ones and the entire Charlotte FC community. 🤍
— Republic FC (@SacRepublicFC) January 19, 2023
RIP Anton.. incredibly sad. Met him at the hawks game few years back and was a top guy. Thoughts are with his family and loved ones. pic.twitter.com/K9YUWKM0ah
— goatjic (@goonergojic10) January 19, 2023