Former FC Dallas U18 Academy player and US U17 Jose Perez was killed this morning in a car accident on his way to practice at San Jacinto College. Perez was an 18 year old freshman midfielder at San Jacinto College getting ready to start for the start of the season.

According to the report, Perez was riding in the back seat of a BMW when another vehicle alledgedly ran a red light, colliding with the BMW and rolling it over. Perez, who was reportedly not wearing a seat belt, was killed. The other passengers of the BMW received only minor injuries.

“Today is another very sad day for the entire FC Dallas community,” said Hunt Sports Group Vice President Dan Hunt. “The passing of Jose Perez is a tragedy that is hard to conceive. He was a fine young man with a very bright and promising future. Jose was a pleasure to be around both on and off the field and he will be greatly missed by all of us.”

Perez was a member of the FC Dallas U18 team that competed at Dallas Cup, defeating Barcelona 3-1 with Perez scoring the 2nd FCD Goal. Perez also helped FC Dallas get to the finals of the Developmental Academy this year before losing to Pateadores by a 2-1 score line.

“Jose was such a significant part of our team and was loved and respected by all who knew him,” said FC Dallas Director of Player Development Oscar Pareja. “He was the type of player any coach is lucky to have… genuine, honest, and extremely hard working. He was an ambassador for this program and for this club. Whether you look at his time at Residency with the U.S. National team, or as an inaugural member of our Academy program, Jose made us incredibly proud. Our prayers are with his family and his teammates during this tragic and devastating loss.”

The young midfielder played 30 games for the FC Dallas Academy last season, making 24 starts and recording six goals.

In lieu of flowers, please support the family with funeral expenses. Donations can be sent to Antonio Perez at 605 Del Paso, Apt. 249, Euless, TX 76040.