A tragic accident takes the life of a delightful & cheerful young man.Ryan Smith played baseball at Flanagan High School with Michael & Tyler Palmer as 9th graders, they all remain friends and in touch.

On Friday, Michael was driving with his best friend (and our umpire and Suns 8U coach Ryan Smith) to pick up their caps and gowns at Flanagan High School. Graduation was scheduled or Tuesday. Michael lost control of his vehicle. According to news reports, the car hit a tree and then crossed a median on 136th ave north of Pines Blvd. Michael was taken to Memorial Regional Hospital and released later with cuts and bruises. Our friend Ryan was not so lucky. He did not make it and was pronounced dead at the hospital. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Ryan and his family. Michael is devastated at the loss of his best friend.