Photo: Jeff Vinnick / Getty Images Sport / Getty Images
ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WBZNewsRadio) - Olivia Knighton, the 11-year-old daughter of the former New England Revolution Goalie, Brad Knighton, has died in a boating accident in South Carolina.
"There are no words to express the depth of our profound grief and sorrow in this moment," The Knighton family wrote in a release. "Our family is still in shock at the sudden and tragic loss of our beautiful and brilliant daughter, Olivia, to an unfortunate boating accident yesterday. We are all still in disbelief that her bright and pure light was taken away from us so suddenly. Somehow, we will get through this together as a family."
Knighton played for the New England Revolution for a dozen years and is the current head coach of the U-19 Revolution Academy.
The team has released a statement offering condolences to the Knighton family and all those touched by Olivia.
"The entire New England Revolution community is devastates to learn of the Knighton family's tragic loss. Olivia was a bright and shining light who was a beloved presence around the Revolution through out her entire life, always bringing a warm smile and laugh to Gillette Stadium and our training facility when she would visit. Her sudden loss leaves a profound hole in our hearts."
The South Carolina department of Natural Resources has opened an investigation into the incident.
They say their initial investigation indicates a 23-foot boat with a dozen people on board, was rocked by a large wake caused from another boat. Nine of the twelve passengers were sent overboard, including 11-year-old Olivia. She was struck by a propeller and was taken to the hospital, where she died from her injuries.
Follow WBZ NewsRadio: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | iHeartmedia App | TikTok