A special hockey fundraiser on Saturday honored the life of Gerrin Hagen. He was a beloved hockey player and employee at the City of Long Beach Ice Arena.

He was a high school senior when he died in 2023 after a vehicle struck him after school.

The event was in its fourth year.

“This was his home away from home,” said Chris Hagen, Gerrin’s dad. “So there's no more fitting of a place for us to have an event in his memory.”

Every year, 2,000 people come out to show their support and celebrate Gerrin’s life.

“When you have a tragedy like that, it's hard to rationalize,” said Daniel Barto, Gerrin’s friend and teammate. “But I think this community just makes the best of it. And there's no way to go but forward.”

Family and friends describe Gerrin as a hard worker, a dedicated teammate and a friend to all.

The Hagen family started the G2H foundation after Gerrin’s death to support school, sports and service scholarships. They say the outpouring of love from the community makes them feel like their mission is accomplished.