October 27, 2009 Three arrested in death of UCONN football player; one charged with murder Play video

(NECN: Storrs, Conn.) - Three people have been arrested in connection to a fight that killed a University of Connecticut football player. One of those men has been charged with murder.

John William Lomax III, 21, of Bloomfield has been charged with murder and conspiracy to commit assault in the first degree. He is currently being held on $2 million bond.

Police say they also charged 20-year-old Hakim Muhammad, of Bloomfield, with conspiracy to commit assault, and 21-year-old Jamal Todd with pulling a fire alarm that emptied the Oct. 18 dance, triggering the fight.

Jasper Howard was fatally stabbed outside a school-sponsored dance on October 18th.

Howard was the school's starting cornerback.

His funeral was held yesterday in Miami, Florida.

UConn President Michael Hogan sent the following message to the university this afternoon:

October 27, 2009

Dear Members of the UConn Community,

As announced by the UConn Police Department this afternoon, we have now made arrests of individuals believed to be involved in the crimes of early Sunday morning October 18, including the fatal stabbing of Jasper Howard.

We continue to mourn the loss of our Jasper. Nothing can replace the void in our hearts left by his death. Yet, I know that many of you will feel reassured by today's news.

Our UConn Police Department has done an outstanding job -- both investigating the case and ensuring the ongoing safety of our

community throughout this difficult time. We are also grateful to the State Police, who have provided us with much-valued support during the investigation.

Many of you have been asking how you can contribute to honor Jasper's memory. We have released information about the avenues through which you can contribute to the Jasper T. Howard Scholarship Fund and reach out to Jasper's family with contributions. This information is available at the following Web site:

http://www.foundation.uconn.edu/stories-of-giving/2009-10-howard.html

During the last 10 days, the UConn community has stood together in support of one another, with kindness and compassion. People from across the world have sent messages of sympathy and support. Many have commented on the dignity and grace being displayed by members of our UConn community during this very difficult time.

I ask that we continue the compassion and dignity, as we grieve our loss and even as the grief subsides. Becoming a more caring and compassionate community out of this tragedy is perhaps one of the best ways we can honor Jasper's memory. I'm so proud to be a part of this wonderful UConn community, which stands together in good and difficult times, and thank each of you for your support of one another and of UConn.

Sincerely,

Mike

Michael J. Hogan President UConn