‘Shock, disbelief’: Daughter of retired New England Revolution player killed in boating accident

LITTLE RIVER, S.C. — A retired New England Revolution player whose now a member of the soccer team’s coaching staff is mourning the “sudden and tragic” death of his daughter.

“There are no words to express the depth of our profound grief and sorrow in this moment,” former goalkeeper Brad Knighton said in a statement.

Olivia Knighton, 11, was killed in a boat crash on the Intracoastal Waterway in Little River, South Carolina, on Wednesday afternoon, The Post and Courier of Myrtle Beach reported.

“Our family is still in shock at the sudden and tragic loss of our beautiful and brilliant daughter, Olivia, to an unfortunate boating accident,” Knighton added. “We are all still ins disbelief that her bright and pure light was taken away from us so suddenly.”

Details on what led up to the crash weren’t immediately available, but the Post and Courier noted that it was the second fatal incident on the waterway in recent weeks.

“Olivia loved soccer and the Revolution with all of her heart,” Knighton said. “Our family always felt your support behind us during my career. We will need you and your prayers with us now more than ever.”

Earlier this year, Knighton announced his retirement from Major League Soccer after 16 seasons, the majority of which were spent in New England.

Knighton is the current head coach of the U-19 Revolution Academy.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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