Cardinals pitcher Hancock killed in road accident

AFP, April, 2007

ST. LOUIS, United States (AFP) — St. Louis pitcher Josh Hancock, a member of the Cardinals' 2006 World Series-winning team, died early Sunday in a road accident at the age of 29, the team said.

According to a statement from the team, Hancock was killed shortly after midnight when the car he was driving struck the back end of a tow-truck that was stopped in the far left lane with its hazards lights on assisting another vehicle.

According to police, Hancock did not attempt to avoid the collision until the last second and he appeared to be killed immediately.

The police also said that speed was not a factor and no alcohol was found in the vehicle.

Due to the tragedy, the finale of a weekend series between the Cardinals and Chicago Cubs set for Sunday ...