Memorial Concert Held for Kelly Thomas

Thomas died after a confrontation with Fullerton police officers in July 2011

About 500 people gathered for a memorial concert in Fullerton Saturday in memory of Kelly Thomas, the mentally ill homeless man who died after a confrontation with police officers.

The concert came two days after the one-year anniversary of the beating, which took place outside the Fullerton Transportation Center on July 5, 2011. Thomas, who suffered from schizophrenia, died five days later at the hospital.

Thomas' father filed a wrongful death lawsuit Thursday against the city of Fullerton and its police department.

Two officers, Manuel Ramos and Jay Cicinelli, have been ordered to stand trial.

Ron Thomas attended Saturday's concert at the Fullerton Museum Plaza and said his son would have loved the show.

"He would have been here dancing, having a good time," Ron Thomas said. "We played the guitar a lot together. He loved music. He would be right in the middle of this, loving it."

The Adolescents headlined the show, which also featured bands such as Mr. Mirainga, New Skool Kings and 80 Proof.

Organizers of the event collected food and clothing donations for the Kelly Thomas Memorial Foundation, a non-profit organization that benefits the homeless. They also auctioned off Angels tickets, Disneyland passes, autographed music memorabilia and other items to raise money for the foundation.

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