Beloved Teammate and Father Remembered by Soccer Clubs Across U.S.
25-year-old Major League Soccer player Anton Walkes was tragically killed earlier this year when the jet ski he was riding on was struck by a boat, according to multiple reports. The impact caused him to be ejected from the jet ski. Investigators say that the young MLS star was wearing a personal floatation device at the time of the accident but succumbed to his injuries from the collision.
As reported by NBC 6, the former Tottenham defender was the passenger on an 11-foot Yamaha personal watercraft when it collided with a 46-foot cabin boat in Biscayne Bay north of the Rickenbacker Causeway. Reports indicate that Walkes suffered blunt force trauma as a result of the fatal jet ski accident.
What Happened to MLS Player Anton Walkes?
MLS player Anton Walkes was a rising star with the Charlotte FC. He was training in Miami with the soccer club at the time of the accident. Multiple reports indicate that on January 18, 2023, Walkes was riding on a jet ski that was struck by a boat near Miami Marine Stadium. The incident occurred at approximately 3:00 p.m.
Walkes was reportedly wearing a lifesaving floatation device at the time of the collision. The force of the impact caused him to be ejected from the jet ski. Investigators revealed that he suffered facial trauma. The phenom was found unconscious in the water. He was taken to a local hospital before succumbing to his injuries. His cause of death was determined to be blunt force trauma. Originally from England, the young soccer player had performed well in the Premier League before coming to the States. He played with Atlanta before joining Charlotte FC.
Jet Ski Crashes in South Florida
Jet ski crashes are unfortunately common in Miami and throughout South Florida. Congested waters near Biscayne Bay can be extremely dangerous for jet skiers and boaters alike. The majority of boat accident deaths are caused by drowning, but some are the result of blunt force trauma.
The crash serves as a devastating reminder of the potential dangers on Florida waterways. There are several things that boaters can do to reduce the risk of accidents and injuries, including appointing a designated lookout, driving within the designated speed limit, and never boating under the influence. There are few words to describe the heartache that is caused when someone is killed in an unexpected accident.
Contact Our Office for More Information
If you are involved in a boating accident, you might be entitled to compensation from one or more liable parties. It is important to discuss your case with an attorney. An attorney can help determine your rights and responsibilities after an accident. In general, you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim for damages; therefore, you should consult with a lawyer as early in the process as possible.
At Mase Seitz Briggs, we provide dedicated representation for individuals who have been injured in boating and jet ski accidents throughout Miami and South Florida. Contact our office today at (844) 627-3529 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.