Angels Pitcher Nick Adenhart Killed in Car Accident Early Thursday Morning

Hours after he started his first start of the 2009 season, Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart was killed in a car accident early Thursday morning. A minivan apparently ran a red light in Fullerton, Calif. and crashed into Adenhart's car.

The 22-year-old Adenhart and two other people in the car were killed, according to NBC Los Angeles and TMZ. Original reports indicated another member of the Angels was killed in the crash, but the team has issued a release saying that wasn't the case.

The minivan then apparently fled the scene of the accident, but police later found the driver and arrested him on hit-and-run charges.

University of California, Irvine Medical Center spokesman John Murray told the Associated Press that Adenhart died after undergoing surgery on Thursday morning.

Adenhart's family released a statement on Thursday.

"Nick's family expresses sincere gratitude for all the help the Angels have provided. He lived his dream and was blessed to be part of an organization comprised of such warm, caring, and compassionate people. The Angels were his extended family. Thanks to all of Nick's loyal supporters and fans throughout his career. He will always be in everyone's hearts forever."

It seems so insignificant now, but Adenhart's start on Wednesday was an example of why he was one of the brighter pitching prospects in baseball. He threw six shutout innings against the A's and struck out five in a game that the Angels ultimately lost 6-3. Adenhart was expected to be a major part of the Angels' effort to retain their AL West crown this season.

"The Angels family has suffered a tremendous loss today," said Angels G.M. Tony Reagins in a statement. "We are deeply saddened and shocked by this tragic loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Nick's family, friends' loved ones and fans."

The Angels will hold a news conference at 10:30 AM PST to update the situation, and presumably address whether or not the Angels and A's will play their game tonight.

There will be plenty of time to discuss how this affects the baseball season, though. The loss of a pitcher means much less than losing a young man much too soon. Our deepest sympathies go out to Adenhart's family and friends.

Update: According to ESPNews, Thursday night's Angels-Athletics game has been postponed.