Charlotte Football Club confirmed that defender Anton Walks died on Thursday in an accident.
The former Tottenham academy player was 25 years old.
London-born Wakes has been playing in MLS since 2020 when he joined Atlanta United after leaving Portsmouth.
He moved to Charlotte for the 2022 season after being selected in the 2021 MLS Expansion Draft. In his debut season, he made 23 league appearances.
We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Anton Walks this morning.
May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/8oUcHvWW6g
— Charlotte FC (@CharlotteFC) January 19, 2023
After his shock death, Charlotte paid tribute to the family man.
“All in [the club] devastated by the tragic death of Anton Walkes,” owner David Tepper said in a statement. “He was an amazing son, father, partner and teammate whose joyful approach to life touched everyone he met.
“Anton made the people around him better in every area of life and represented Charlotte at the highest level both on and off the field.
“He will be greatly missed by many and our thoughts and prayers are with Anton’s family at this heartbreaking time. The club offers its full support to all those affected during this period of mourning.”