Carter Payne, a former member of Barcelona's academy in America, has been killed in a hit-and-run aged 21.
Payne played alongside the likes of USMNT international Matthew Hoppe and Mexico star Julian Araujo at the Barcelona Residency Academy in Casa Grande, Arizona. After departing he played for the University of Michigan before joining Tormenta FC, where he was part of their League Two roster this season.
His current club confirmed in a statement he had passed away from injuries sustained when he was driving an electric scooter and hit by a vehicle. WTOC report that the driver of the vehicle left the scene whilst Payne was flown to a nearby hospital and later died from his injuries.
Tormenta FC wrote: “South Georgia Tormenta FC are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Tormenta FC 2 defender David Carter Payne. Carter passed away today, July 9. A member of Tormenta FC 2′s 2022 USL League Two team, Payne was a tremendous athlete, teammate and friend, and he will be sorely missed by everyone involved at the club.
"Carter was hospitalized at Memorial Health: Southeast Georgia Hospital after being involved in a vehicle, pedestrian accident in Statesboro, Georgia. Carter’s family, friends and the entirety of Tormenta Nation are grieving today.”
Barcelona Residency Academy Arizona wrote on social media: " We are devastated by the tragic loss of one of our own, Barca alum, Carter Payne.
"Carter was an extraordinary brother, teammate, and student-athlete who will be sorely missed. We send our love and support to Carter’s family and friends during this extremely difficult time."
University of Michigan Men's Soccer team wrote: "We are devastated to confirm the tragic loss of Carter Payne. We grieve the loss of our brother, teammate and extraordinary student-athlete. We extend our hearts and love to his family at this extremely tragic time."
United Soccer League released a statement encouraging teams to pay tributes prior to their next games, adding: "The USL mourns the passing of Tormenta FC 2 defender David Carter Payne, who tragically lost his life in a traffic accident on July 9 in Statesboro, Georgia.
"Our thoughts are with Payne's family and the entire Tormenta FC community - teammates, coaches, staff and fans. The USL invites all league two clubs to honour David Carter Payne prior to their next match."
