NEW ALBANY, Ind. — Despite the rivalries and desire to win, schools across Southern Indiana showed Friday night it was more than a game.
It was a show of support for Bryce Gerlach's family.
"Support is on everybody," said Ashton Timberlake, a Floyd Central student. "Even if you didn't know him, just the story. Leaning on people is what's getting everybody through."
High schools across Southern Indiana honored the 18 year old who was tragically killed near Harvest Homecoming on Oct. 12.
"Never saw him without a smile on his face," said Jodi Robinson, parent of a freshman on the Floyd Central football team.
Floyd Central High School played New Albany High School as fans were decked out in orange for gun violence awareness.
Bryce was supposed to celebrate his senior night game at Corydon High School on Friday.
“I can’t imagine what the parents are going through, having a kid close to that age," Robinson said. "I’m at a loss for words.”
Timberlake is one of Gerlach's friends.
"Bryce was really close with all of us here at Floyd, at different sporting events, he was always there," Timberlake said.
Custom t-shirts for the teenager sold out early in the night.
"Awareness is one of the biggest things, just getting it known and getting his name spread," Timberlake said.
Matt Heintzman, a parent of students who attend school in the area, said the support is "a small gesture, something we're grateful we can do."
In Southern Indiana, the region stood together to honor Bryce Gerlach -- who was loved by many.
"That's what makes this place special," Heintzman said. "It's a small-town community, we've got our rivalries in our sports, and our battles on the field. But, at the end of the day, we care about each other and try to help each other as much as we can, and that's what makes it awesome."
The New Albany Police Department (NAPD) said the shooting remains under investigation, adding that progress has been made. Chief Todd Bailey says at least two groups were involved in the dispute leading up to the fatal shooting.
"Our team has worked tirelessly since the incident to bring those responsible for this senseless act to justice. Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation many details can't be released," Bailey said.
Anyone with information on the shooting is still encouraged to call the tip line at 812-948-NAPD.
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