Carter Payne, alumnus of the Michigan men’s soccer team, died Saturday following a hit-and-run accident in Statesboro, Georgia. At the time, the 20-year-old defender was a player for United Soccer League’s Tormenta FC.
“South Georgia Tormenta FC is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Tormenta FC 2 defender David Carter Payne,” the club said in a statement. statement. “…Payne was a tremendous athlete, teammate and friend, and he will be dearly missed by everyone involved with the club.”
The accident occurred when Payne was riding an electric scooter. The driver who hit him fled the scene and Payne was later taken to hospital by ambulance after first responders arrived. He then died in hospital.
Payne played for the Wolverines in 2019 and 2020 before turning professional with the USL. In his first season at Michigan, Payne played in 10 games, eight of them from the backline. Payne received UM Athletic Academic Achievement Awards in 2019 and All-Big Ten Academic Honors in 2020.
“We are devastated to confirm the tragic loss of Carter Payne,” the Michigan men’s soccer team said in a statement. statement. “We mourn the loss of our amazing brother, teammate and student-athlete. We offer our hearts and love to his family at this extremely tragic time. »
Before coming to Michigan, Payne played for the Barcelona Residency Academy in Casa Grande, Arizona, near his hometown of Phoenix.
“Carter was an amazing brother, teammate and student-athlete who will be sorely missed,” the academy said in a statement. statement. “We send our love and support to Carter’s family and friends during this extremely difficult time.”
Following Payne’s death, the Ibis Foundation created the Carter Payne Fund to accept donations in his memory. Money raised will go to the Payne family to help with funeral costs and help create the “Carter Payne Scholarship” fund, which will cover one TFC Academy player’s team and uniform costs each year, from of the 2023 TFC Academy season.
According to Tormenta FC owner Darin Van Tassell, Payne’s teammates chose to play their scheduled match against Peachtree City MOBA on Tuesday in his honor.
Although Payne only spent two seasons with Michigan, his tragic loss leaves a legacy on the field.
A GoFundMe has been set up to help the Payne family with expenses related to Carter Payne’s death. Those wishing to donate can find the link here.
