Top 10 Stories: Nick Ekbatani, Pier Jumper

It's been a crazy year. Redondo Beach Patch writers were busy writing about homicides, television episodes and dancing firefighters, among other topics. Here are the Nos. 9 and 10 stories of the year, chosen by popularity and editorial discretion.

Nick Ekbatani Overcomes Loss of Limb (No. 10)

When Amir "Nick" Ekbatani lost his leg in a motorcycle collision at the corner of Diamond Street and Pacific Coast Highway in South Redondo Beach on July 14, his friends sprang into action.

Kim Macedo spearheaded a push to raise, at first, $50,000 to pay for a prosthesis for the former UCLA offensive lineman. That goal was met within days. So far, more than $62,000 has been raised.

"This accident has been the best thing to ever happen to me," Ekbatani wrote Saturday on the "Big Nick Fund" donation page. "I lost my leg, and nearly lost my life—but I have gained a purpose amidst the chaos. I have the voice to inspire and help millions of people with my story."

Ekbatani aims to eventually compete in the Paralympics.

Related:

• Friends Raise Funds for Nick Ekbatani
• Former UCLA Lineman on Road to Recovery

Body Discovered off Redondo Beach Pier (No. 9)

On April 29, lifeguards recovered a body off the Redondo Beach Pier. It was believed to be that of David Thompson, 22, who jumped off the pier with a friend April 14. The friend survived; Thompson was not found, despite a search by lifeguards, the U.S. Coast Guard and local police and fire departments.

The remains were found in 60 feet of water on a shelf near the 300-foot-deep offshore Redondo Canyon.

Related:

• Search for Pier Jumper Called Off
• Body Found Off Redondo Beach Pier

To view this year's other top stories, click here.