SAN DIEGO — The San Diego County Administration Center will be bathed in purple and gold beginning at sunset Wednesday night in memory of Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant, his 13-year-old daughter Gianna, and the seven others who died in a helicopter crash Sunday.
People walking along the Embarcadero stopped to pause and remember the Lakers legend.
"We walked out the door and saw it and made my heart skip a beat," said Northern California Lakers fan Barry Overton.
Shane Harris, president of the People's Alliance for Justice, sent a letter asking San Diego County Chief Administrative Officer Helen Robbins-Meyer to program the building's lights in honor of the former NBA superstar. The county agreed to light the building in purple and gold from 5:15 to 11:30 p.m.
"It is important that San Diego shows solidarity with Los Angeles and other cities across the country that are remembering and honoring the historic basketball player not just for his contributions on the court but off the court as well," Harris wrote in his letter. "As well as standing side-by- side in prayer and thought for the eight other victims killed in Sunday's helicopter crash."
Landmarks across the country are lit in purple and gold and also colors of almuni killed in the crash.
"He was internationally known and the entire country is grieving," said San Diegan Amy Reczek. "It's beautiful, its very beautiful."
On Wednesday, The Lakers returned to practice for their first game since the former Laker died. Mamba Academy also reopened in Thousand Oaks.