The WW-P community is mourning the sudden death of arguably the best baseball player to attend North in its 10-year history.##M:[more]##
Class of 2009 graduate David Bachner, 18, the school’s talented star left-handed pitcher, was preparing to make his mark at Seton Hall University this fall. He died on August 11 of an apparent heart attack.
According to sources, Bachner’s parents were unable to reach him on his cell phone and called 911, but arrived before police and found their son dead. Officials are saying that Bachner may have had a pre-existing medical condition and that a doctor had found a heart problem when Bachner was getting his physical for Seton Hall. During the American Legion season in June, Bachner even wore a heart monitor for several days.
At North, Bachner, who was co-captain of the baseball team and a standout pitcher since entering the Babe Ruth leagues, finished with a 1.50 ERA, 236 strikeouts, and a 17-3 won-loss count, all of which are school records.
Just this past May, Bachner led North to the Mercer County Tournament finals by defeating Nottingham, 13-0, in the semifinals. During that seven-inning game, he pitched his first career no-hitter, striking out 12 and walking five along the way.
Bachner again led his team to its first NJSIAA Group III Central tournament title over Red Bank at the end of May. During that game, he pitched a one-hitter with 10 strikeouts. Under Bachner, the team’s record this year was also its best yet, as the team finished 23-4.
Since news of his death broke, Bachner’s teammates, coaches, and other school officials remembered Bachner not only for his athletic talent and abilities, but also for his character off the field, recalling him as the school’s most popular student who brought a smile to everyone’s face.
“It is very unfortunate,” said school board president Hemant Marathe. “He was a great kid, a great athlete, and it’s a big loss to his friends, to his community, and to the school district as well. He had great potential on and off the field.”
“I want to pass our condolences on behalf of the board and administration to the family,” Marathe added.
Visitation will be from 2 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, August 14, at the Queenship of Mary Church on Dey Road. Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at 11 a.m. Saturday, August 15, at the church.
