News Summary

The community of Des Moines is in mourning following the tragic death of 15-year-old baseball player Santiago Rhone, who was killed in an accident while crossing the street. Santiago was a dedicated athlete and student, with a promising future ahead of him. A candlelight vigil will be held to honor his memory and support grieving family and friends. This heartbreaking incident has left a profound impact on the community, reminding everyone of the importance of unity in times of sorrow.

Des Moines Community in Shock Over the Loss of Young Baseball Star

In a heart-wrenching incident that cast a shadow over Des Moines, the community is coming together to mourn the untimely passing of Santiago Rhone, a talented 15-year-old sophomore baseball player at East High School. The tragedy unfolded during Homecoming weekend when Santiago was struck by a motorcycle while crossing Northeast 29th Street late Saturday night. He was rushed to a local hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries.

A Bright Future Cut Short

For those who knew Santiago, he was more than just a baseball player; he was a dedicated student and a rising star on the field. Over the last two seasons, he made a significant impact on the East High Scarlets baseball team, starting 22 games this past spring and playing in 27 games as a freshman. With an impressive batting average of 0.339, he recorded three doubles, 19 runs batted in, and scored 14 runs. He also showcased his skills on the mound with 12 appearances, striking out 32 batters across nearly 31 innings.

Everyone around him recognized his potential. It is widely believed that Santiago was on the verge of becoming a key player for the Scarlets in the upcoming season. With aspirations of playing at the collegiate level or even turning professional, he had captured the hearts of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

Community Comes Together

As word of his tragic death spread, an outpouring of grief swept through the community. Currently, there are no charges filed against the motorcycle rider involved in the accident, a 23-year-old male who remains hospitalized with injuries from the crash. This incident has left many in the neighborhood feeling a profound sense of sorrow and loss.

A Candlelight Vigil for Santiago

To honor Santiago’s memory, a candlelight vigil is being organized at the East High School baseball field, scheduled for 7 p.m. on Wednesday. Friends, family, and community members are expected to gather to pay their respects, share stories, and support one another during this incredibly difficult time.

The Impact on Family and Friends

Santiago was not just a talented athlete but also a cherished son and friend. His mother spoke about his unwavering dedication both on the field and in his studies, expressing her pride in his ambition to pro in baseball. The emotional toll on the family is immense. A family friend echoed that “time has just stopped” for them, a sentiment that resonates with the broader community as well.

Local residents have flooded social media with expressions of heartbreak and support. One neighbor, who has a 15-year-old son himself, described the accident as hitting too close to home, sharing his sorrow and compassion for Santiago’s family.

Looking Ahead

As the community grapples with this tragic event, there’s a collective spirit of remembrance and love that surrounds Santiago’s legacy. His passion for the game and commitment to his friends and family will not be forgotten. As they come together at the vigil, residents of Des Moines are reminded of the importance of unity and support during times of grief.

In a world where youth are often taken for granted, Santiago Rhone’s story serves as a poignant reminder that life can change in an instant. Here’s hoping that the community can find solace and strength in each other as they navigate through this challenging moment in time.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Des Moines Community Mourns Loss of Young Athlete

Additional Resources