Anton Walkes dead at 25: Former Tottenham defender dies in horror Miami boat crash
FORMER Tottenham star Anton Walkes has died at the age of 25 in a horror boat crash in Miami.
The footballer – who is understood to be a dad – was involved in an accident in South Florida on Wednesday afternoon.
He was found unconscious following the shocking smash between two boats, according to the Miami Herald.
The Charlotte FC star received CPR at the scene from the Miami Fire Rescue at 3pm local time.
Walkes was then taken to a local hospital, but sadly passed away.
His club’s sporting director Zoran Krneta confirmed: “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.
“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.”
Tributes came in from across the footballing world after the tragic news.
Charlotte FC owner David Tepper added: “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.”
Major League Soccer wrote in a statement of their own: “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.
READ THE LATEST ON WALKES’ TRAGIC DEATH HERE
“Anton was a talented and dedicated player who was loved by his team-mates and fans.
“We extend our deepest condolences to his partner, family, friends and the entire Charlotte FC family.
“MLS is coordinating with Charlotte FC to provide players and family members with the resources and support they may need during this tragic time.”
Walkes began his career with Spurs back in 2013 after being born in Lewisham.
He made a single appearance for the London club in the League Cup during the 2016-17 season.
He went on to play for Portsmouth on loan, before making a permanent move and spending two years at the club.
Walkes made 66 appearances for the South Coast side.
Both his former clubs in England have paid tribute.
Tottenham tweeted: “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.”
And North London rivals Arsenal replied: “May Anton rest in peace. The thoughts of all of us at Arsenal are with his loved ones.”
The Londoner then joined Atlanta United in the MLS before going to Charlotte FC.