Rising sophomore found dead in New Jersey, authorities say

Shortly after midnight on Thursday rising sophomore Brendan Tevlin was shot and killed in his car in West Orange, N.J., according to authorities.

CBS2 reported that Tevlin, 19, was out visiting with friends for the night and texted his mother to say he was on his way home. Tevlin was found in the parking lot of a West Orange apartment building with multiple gun shot wounds, and the passenger and driver side windows of his vehicle were shattered. Officials have not released any more details regarding the investigation.

According to NJ.com, the local police are heavily investigating the homicide. They say this incident does not appear to be random and that Tevlin was most likely targeted. Authorities are working to establish motive and track down suspects.

New York and New Jersey newspapers reported that several residents of the West Orange area, when asked about the gunshots outside their homes, either heard nothing or thought the noise was a passing thunderstorm. All who were interviewed were shocked by the crime.

A statement released by President Ayers yesterday afternoon noted that Tevlin was planning on majoring in business and was active in club sports on campus, namely lacrosse.

"He was the nicest kid; easily one of the sweetest boys I met all year," said fellow classmate Ariana LaRocca. "He always had a smile on his face and had a positive outlook on everything," LaRocca said.

Over 300 guests attended a service for Tevlin at his alma mater, Seton Hall Prep, yesterday afternoon. Tevlin was highly involved at Seton Hall and in his community, according to the Alternative Press. The teen's peers from both UR and Seton Hall have poured out nothing but compliments about the gregarious young man.

According to Facebook, a candlelight vigil will be held tonight at 8:30 pm in Livingston, Tevlin's hometown, to honor his memory.

The investigation is still ongoing.

Contact staff writer Stephanie Manley at stephanie.manley@richmond.edu