A star on the rise

Nick Adenhart was just 22 years old, already making his second MLB start with the Los Angeles Angels. Scouts projected him as a future ace for the franchise.

A bravura final performance

On April 8, 2009, Adenhart pitched six scoreless innings against the Oakland Athletics, allowing just seven hits and striking out five. He left the mound to a standing ovation.

The killer behind the wheel

Andrew Gallo, 22, had a suspended license and a blood alcohol level nearly triple the legal limit. He fled the scene but was arrested shortly after.

How could this happen?

The Angels postponed their next game. Players and fans around MLB held moments of silence. Tributes poured in from across the country as the story dominated sports media.

A season devoted to Adenhart

The Angels wore a patch with Adenhart's No. 34 for the rest of the 2009 season. They honoured him with a jersey hanging in the dugout throughout their playoff run.

Gallo imprisoned, but no closure

In 2010, Gallo was convicted of three counts of second-degree murder and sentenced to 51 years to life. The pain for Adenhart's family and teammates, however, can never fade.

Out of tragedy, something positive

Adenhart's family created a memorial fund in his name to support youth baseball and drunk driving prevention. His legacy lives on through many he never met, but whom he nevertheless still inspires.

Unfathomable loss

Adenhart was ranked the Angels' top prospect in 2009. With a fastball topping 95 mph and pinpoint control, many believed he could have become an All-Star pitcher.