Baseball community pays tribute to pitcher Adenhart

With friends and fans arriving in baseball gear, Los Angeles Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart was remembered Friday at a funeral service attended by thousands at his former high school in Williamsport, Md.

Adenhart starred at Williamsport High School before becoming a major leaguer. Those wearing baseball clothing at the service did so at the request of the family.

The 22-year-old pitcher was killed in a car accident in California on April 9, hours after pitching six scoreless innings against the Boston Red Sox. He was buried Thursday in a private ceremony.

The memorial service was held in the school gym. Outside, a large circle containing Adenhart's name and his No. 34 with the Angels was displayed.

In the gym, a video depicted him at various stages of his life, celebrating his outgoing personality and prowess on the mound.

'Never to be forgotten'

Several photo montages were set up between floral arrangements sent by the Angels, Major League Baseball, the double-A team he played for in Arkansas, Angels teammate Torii Hunter and the Boston Red Sox.

There was also a T-shirt adorned by a child that read, "An Angel Never to Be Forgotten."

The eulogy was to be given by Rev. Josh Carter, a high school teammate before Adenhart transferred to Williamsport.

Adenhart's stepfather, Duane Gigeous, said the family would not speak to reporters before or after the service.

Andrew Thomas Gallo, 22, was charged with three counts of murder last week. He is accused of running a red light in his minivan and hitting the car carrying Adenhart and his friends.

Courtney Stewart, 20, and Henry Pearson, 25, also died in the crash.