MLS defender Anton Walkes dies from injuries in Florida boating accident

• by Simon Evans , Jan 20, 2023

Anton Walkes, a 25-year-old defender who played four seasons in MLS,  has died after an accident in South Florida.

The Englishman was in the Miami area for pre-season training camp with Charlotte FC, and local media reports said the player was involved in a boat crash on Wednesday.

Local 10 news said that Walkes was found unconscious after the crash and received CPR from Miami Fire Rescue before he was taken to hospital but he later died.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission issued a statement that, around 3 p.m. on Wednesday, FWC officers attended to a two-vessel accident near the Miami Marine Stadium basin. The FWC said that the investigation is ongoing.

Charlotte said in a statement that they were "devastated" by the tragedy.

"He was a tremendous son, father, partner and teammate whose joyous approach to life touched everyone he met,” said club owner David Tepper.  “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."

Absolutely heartbroken. Thanks for being such a great teammate, friend, leader, and person. Rest easy brother https://t.co/iepAX20RTS

— Brandt Bronico (@Bronibro13) January 19, 2023

Walkes was part of the youth set-up at Premier League club Tottenham, where he played four games before moving on loan to Atlanta United for its launch in 2017. He then moved to Portsmouth, where he spent two years before returning to Atlanta United in 2020. In December 2021, he was taken by Charlotte in the MLS Expansion Draft.

Walkes played 70 games in three seasons with Atlanta United and 23 with Charlotte FC in 2022.

Major League Soccer said in a statement: "There are no words to describe the sorrow of everyone in Major League Soccer today after learning of the tragic passing of Anton Walkes of Charlotte FC. Anton was a talented and dedicated player who was loved by his teammates and fans."

@ Agence France-Presse