Candlelight Memorial for Trent Tozer | South Pasadena Families Come Together

Trent Tozer, 13-year-old Little League player and South Pasadena Middle School student, who was tragically struck and killed by a Metro Gold Line Train
PHOTO: News Staff | South Pasadena News | Hundreds come out to Clarich Field in Arroyo Park to remember Trent Tozer, 13-year-old Little League player and South Pasadena Middle School student, who was tragically struck and killed by a Metro Gold Line Train Sunday night.

Mourners gathered at South Pasadena’s Little League fields Wednesday night, remembering 13-year-old Trent Tozer, who was tragically struck and killed by a Metro Gold Line Metro train last Sunday, leaving his family, friends and the community devastated.

Tozer was remembered by the baseball and softball organization for his standout play as emotional players and their parents dealt with the sudden loss. Hundreds attended a candlelight vigil at Clarich Field in Arroyo Park, grieving as they tried to come to terms with the tragic death of the seventh grade student at South Pasadena Middle School.

“The whole community loved him,” one young person told Fox 11 News.

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“I don’t have any words for it,” said a woman. “It’s overwhelming. I’m beyond words.”

“It’s a very emotional time,” added one parent, telling the television station how close-knit the players are in the league. “They all know each other well and see each other a lot. It’s hard for us to take.”

SPLL Instagram: Candlelight Memorial for Trent Tozer, South Pasadena April 5, 2023
SPLL Instagram: Candlelight Memorial for Trent Tozer, South Pasadena April 5, 2023

In remembrance, many brought flowers and candles, filling the backstop area behind home plate of the field where Tozer played. Others left their thoughts behind on a message board.

Richard Tozer, the father of the teen who serves on the South Pasadena Little League Board of Directors, addressed the crowd during Wednesday’s memorial, thanking those on hand for their strong support. Teachers and staff from the middle school joined city officials, including members of the City Council, police and fire departments, at the event, which couldn’t hide its sorrow.

A moment of silence in tribute to Tozer was a time for hugs, tears and tremendous sadness.

Alberto Ocon, the president of South Pasadena Little League, was among those who spoke during the vigil, giving his appreciation for the many attendees who came out to remember one of the league’s own.

“The passing of Trent Tozer has been tough on our community,” he said. “We are supporting the Tozer family the best we can. I don’t have much to say. I am still in shock this has happened to a wonderful family and our community.” 

An investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department is underway following the incident involving a Gold Line train going westbound Sunday evening at Arroyo Verde Road.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for the Tozer family.

SPLL Instagram: Candlelight Memorial for Trent Tozer, South Pasadena April 5, 2023
SPLL Instagram: Candlelight Memorial for Trent Tozer, South Pasadena April 5, 2023