Angels Nick Adenhart Killed by Drunk Driver

Hours after a very impressive pitching performance for the Los Angeles Angels, 22-year-old starting pitcher Nick Adenhart was killed by a drunk driver in Fullerton, California. The 6-foot-3 Adenhart had worked his way up through the minor leagues to earn a spot in the team’s rotation.

Nick Adenhart, Los Angeles Angels (Image: Newscom)

Against the Oakland Athletics, Adenhart pitched six scoreless innings in which he scattered seven hits and three walks while striking out five batters. Although Adenhart had started three games in 2008, his first start of the 2009 baseball season was the best start of his career.

The drunk driver has been identified as Andrew Gallo of Riverside, California. The 22-year-old had previous arrests for drunken driving and his license was suspended at the time of the incident. Police say that Gallo is being charged with felony DUI, felony hit-and-run, three charges of vehicular manslaughter and three charges of murder.

Following the incident, Adenhart was rushed to Irvine Medical Center. He was pronounced dead while in surgery. In addition to Adenhart, two of the other three people in his car have died. The fourth is in critical condition.

“It is a tragedy,” said Angels manager Mike Scioscia, “that will never be forgotten.”