Tuesday, October 20, 2009

UCONN CORNERBACK, JASPER HOWARD, STABBED TO DEATH


University of Connecticut starting cornerback Jasper Howard, 20, was fatally stabbed during a fight after a fire alarm was pulled during a university dance at the UConn Student Union just after 12:30 a.m. on Sunday.

The Miami native, who was the first in his family to go to college, was about to become a father and had helped his team to a homecoming victory against Louisville on Saturday, just hours before his death. Police have not identified a suspect but are asking anyone with information to contact the campus police at 860-486-4800.

Known as “Jazz” to his teammates, Howard often talked about his tough time growing up in Miami and his dream to play professionally so he could support his family. According to the Hartford Courant, his mother, Joangila, worked many jobs to support him and his sisters, Keyondra and Jasmine, who is afflicted with meningitis.

“He was a good child, a wonderful, sweet, loving child. I just hope whoever did it turns himself in. [Jasper] didn’t deserve this,” Ms. Howard said.

Our thoughts and prayers are with Jasper’s friends and family.

(source)