Fort Wayne residents gathered in large numbers on January 7, 2026, to remember Adlee Scheerer, the beloved captain of the Carroll High School hockey team who died unexpectedly over the weekend. The candlelight vigil at PSM Icehouse brought together family, friends, teammates, and community members to share stories of his leadership and kindness, highlighting the deep impact he left on local sports and beyond.

Community Gathers in Mourning

Hundreds of people filled the PSM Icehouse on a chilly evening, lighting candles and sharing memories of Adlee Scheerer. The 18-year-old senior had been a standout player for Carroll High School, known for his skill on the ice and his role as team captain.

The event started around 7 p.m., with attendees forming a circle around the rink where Adlee had spent countless hours practicing and competing. Organizers played a slideshow of photos from his hockey career, including moments from last year’s state championship where he scored the winning goal.

Family members, including his brother Brodee Scheerer, spoke about Adlee’s outgoing nature and how he always made time for others. Brodee noted that Adlee stayed connected with everyone he met, often stepping up to help friends in need.

Coaches and teammates echoed these sentiments, describing Adlee as the heart of the team. His sudden passing has left a void in the Fort Wayne hockey scene, where youth sports play a big role in community life.

Adlee’s Legacy on the Ice

Adlee Scheerer joined the Carroll High School hockey team as a freshman and quickly rose through the ranks. By his senior year, he earned the captain’s role, leading the Chargers to several key victories.

One highlight was the 2025 state championship game, where Adlee’s game-winning goal secured the title for Carroll. This achievement not only boosted school spirit but also inspired younger players in the area.

Beyond stats, Adlee focused on teamwork. His coach, Kelly Hay, praised him for embodying the spirit of playing for others. Teammates like Taylor Pedersen remembered how Adlee treated everyone with respect, making the locker room a positive space.

Adlee’s influence extended off the ice too. He volunteered at local youth clinics, teaching kids basic skills and encouraging them to pursue the sport. This dedication helped grow hockey’s popularity in Fort Wayne, a city with a growing interest in winter sports amid Indiana’s cold seasons.

In recent years, similar tragedies in youth sports have prompted communities to rally, much like the support seen after losses in other high school teams across the Midwest. For instance, schools in nearby states have held vigils for athletes, emphasizing mental health and safety in competitive environments.

Support Pours in for the Family

The Scheerer family has received overwhelming support since Adlee’s passing. A GoFundMe campaign set up to cover funeral costs and support the family quickly surpassed its initial goal of $10,000, raising over $50,000 within days.

Donations came from across Indiana and beyond, including from rival hockey teams and former opponents who respected Adlee’s sportsmanship. Local businesses also stepped up, offering free services for the vigil and upcoming services.

Brodee Scheerer expressed gratitude for the outpouring, mentioning how it reflects Adlee’s wide circle of friends. He encouraged people to attend the visitation and funeral, details of which are available through local announcements.

This response mirrors trends in community aid following unexpected losses. In 2025, similar fundraisers in the U.S. raised millions for families affected by youth athlete tragedies, according to national reports on sports safety.

• Community Gestures: Local schools dimmed stadium lights in tribute, a common practice seen in recent memorials for young athletes.
• Online Tributes: Social media flooded with posts using hashtags like #RememberAdlee, sharing videos of his best plays.
• Future Plans: The hockey team plans a scholarship in his name to help aspiring players.

Broader Impact on Local Sports

Adlee’s death has sparked conversations about athlete well-being in Fort Wayne. Coaches are now pushing for more resources on mental health, drawing from national guidelines updated in 2025 by organizations like the National Federation of State High School Associations.

The vigil served as a reminder of how sports build strong bonds. Attendees left feeling inspired to honor Adlee by supporting one another, much like he did.

In a city where hockey is gaining traction, with participation up 15 percent in the last five years per local league data, Adlee’s story encourages continued growth while prioritizing safety.

As investigations into the cause of death continue, the focus remains on celebrating his life. Fort Wayne’s response shows the power of community in times of grief.

We invite you to share your own memories of Adlee Scheerer in the comments below or on social media. If this story touched you, pass it along to others who might find comfort in it.