The tragic passing of Diogo Jota is currently under investigation by Spanish authorities, who are treating the incident as a "possible speeding incident". The Liverpool forward, aged 28, was involved in a fatal car accident that also claimed the life of his brother, Andre, aged 26.
The accident took place on the Rias Bajas Highway (A-52) in Spain, near Palacios de Sanabria, en route to Benavente. The crash occurred at 12.30am, with the Lamborghini reportedly veering off the road and catching fire, believed to be caused by a tire burst during an overtaking manoeuvre. Jota was on his way back to the UK to report for Liverpool pre-season training on Monday, and only didn't fly due to doctor's orders after surgery.
Tributes have poured in from around the sporting world, with LeBron James sending a message and Liverpool fans and players past and present speaking out, including Sir Kenny Dalglish and Darwin Nunez.
According to a statement from a Spanish government source reported by the PA news agency, the police are looking into the possibility of speeding being a factor in the crash. It has been confirmed that no other vehicles were implicated in the incident.
Further details provided by the Guardia Civil in Zamora state: "A vehicle left the road and everything indicates a tire burst while overtaking. As a result of the accident, the car caught fire and both people were killed. Pending the completion of forensic tests, one of the deceased has been identified as Diogo Jota, a Liverpool FC player, and his brother, Andre Felipe."
Jota, a Portuguese international, is survived by his wife and three children. His recent marriage took place less than two weeks prior to the accident.
A key figure in Liverpool's squad, Jota had contributed to the club's success, including their latest achievement of a record-equalling 20th league title.
Liverpool FC Player Diogo Jota Dies In Car Crash In Zamora, Spain
The crash happened on the Rias Bajas Highway (A-52) in Spain (Image: Getty)
The reigning Premier League champions are in mourning following the untimely demise of Diogo Jota. The club has released a heartbreaking statement: "The club have been informed the 28-year-old has passed away following a road traffic accident in Spain along with his brother, Andre."
Delivering their plea, they continued: "Liverpool FC will be making no further comment at this time and request the privacy of Diogo and Andre's family, friends, teammates and club staff is respected as they try to come to terms with an unimaginable loss.
"We will continue to provide them with our full support."
Former manager Jürgen Klopp, who signed Jota for Liverpool, shared his sorrow online: "This is a moment where I struggle! There must be a bigger purpose! But I can't see it! I'm heartbroken to hear about the passing of Diogo and his brother Andre."
Continuing his touching tribute, he added: "Diogo was not only a fantastic player, but also a great friend, a loving and caring husband and father! We will miss you so much!
"All my prayers, thoughts and power to Rute, the kids, the family, the friends and everyone who loved them! Rest in peace - Love J."