By Erin Robin
In the early morning hours of Saturday Sept. 17, University of Tampa student Carson Senfield lost his life on his 19th birthday.
After a night out celebrating his birthday, Senfield was shot and killed after attempting to enter the wrong vehicle. The driver alleges that he feared for his life. Senfield passed away at the scene. The tragic event happened near the intersection of W. Arch and N. Munro streets.
An email from the UT Administrative Office was sent out to all students and staff on Saturday at 3:09PM, informing everyone of the heartbreaking and devastating incident.
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the student’s family and friends, as well as all who were affected by this incident. The University values all members of the community and mourns this tragic loss,” said the statement.
The incident is under an ongoing investigation by Tampa Police.
Senfield was from Buffalo, New York, where he lived with his mother, father, and younger brother and sister. He attended Orchard Park High School, where he was a member of the hockey team.
The sophomore, who was studying finance, is remembered as a likable person who had many friends. Students say that Senfield was the light in every room, and was known for his humor.
“[Senfield was] Very outgoing and caring, the type to put others first before taking care of himself. He would always come up and tell you he loves you just so you knew,” said Vincent Herrer, who has known Senfield since freshman year. “That’s just the kind of kid he was.”
Friends say Senfield valued his friends and family more than anything.
“He always talked to me about his family, especially his dad. He absolutely loved his dad and always told me great stories about the two of them,” said Andrew Allekian, who met Senfield through living in Austin Hall.
Senfield’s family has started a scholarship fund to “provide opportunities for young men and women to have the passion and success in college that Carson was experiencing.”
“The moment Carson would walk through the door, he would have the most random, hilarious jokes. He always exceeded at making everyone laugh,” said Hailey Goetz, who also lived close by to Senfield in Austin Hall their freshman year.
Senfield was a son, a friend, a brother, a classmate, and will be missed by many. Some of his close friends plan on gathering together at Davis Islands and setting off lanterns in his honor.
Students who may need support at this time are encouraged to visit the Counseling Center, which is open Monday through Friday, 8:30AM – 5:00PM.