A Connecticut college basketball star was shot and killed at a New Jersey nature preserve over the weekend, according to authorities.
Phil Urban, a 6-foot-4 forward at the University of Connecticut, was shot Saturday in Hopewell Township, New Jersey, about 30 miles from his hometown of Manalapan Township.
Urban, 20, was found “slumped” in the driver’s seat of a white Mercedes around 7 p.m. Saturday, the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office said.
He was taken to the health regional medical center of the capital, where he was declared dead shortly after being injured by a bullet.
According to the preliminary investigation, Urban arranged to meet the acquaintance under protection. He was “shot at some point during the encounter,” prosecutors said.
The shooting is being investigated as a homicide.
No arrests have been made and authorities are asking anyone with information to come forward.
Post University CEO and President John L. Hopkins said the community was “heartbroken” to learn of Urban’s death.
Urban modeled the traits of leadership, commitment, and hard work on the court and in the classroom as a member of the men’s basketball team and a business administration major, Hopkins said. “We hope his family, friends, and those affected by his passing find strength in this extremely difficult time.”
Hopkins said counseling resources will be available to help students and staff.
Urban was a freshman on Post University’s 2022-23 basketball roster.
Post University’s basketball team welcomed him back on Twitter in April, calling him a “skilled wing” who “can play multiple positions.
“We are excited about what Phil will add to our team, both as a player and as a person. Welcome to the Nest, Phil!” The statement said at the time.