A Howard University student met a tragic fate Thursday night while celebrating the nation’s 237th birthday.

Omar Sykes and a friend were involved in an attempted robbery near the Howard University campus, ABC 7 reports. Sykes was shot in the chest and later pronounced dead at a hospital

His friend was pistol-whipped and suffered a head injury. His wounds are considered not life threatening, according to WUSA 9.

Friends held a vigil Friday in Sykes’ honor.

Jennifer Jenkins has fond memories of Sykes.

“As an educator you come across students and individuals who you know can just change the world if they want to and Omar can literally do that with his smile,” Jenkins told NBC 4.

Sykes, a member of Alpha Phi Omega Fraternity, majored in Marketing and was to start his senior year in the Fall.

“Anytime you lose a brother, whether it’s blood or a fraternal bond or a friend, you lose a piece of yourself.

Howard University released a statement regarding the tragic death:

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of one our students in an off-campus incident. A second student was injured and is being treated for non-life threatening injuries…. Howard University Police Department is cooperating with the Metropolitan Police Department to thoroughly investigate this regrettable incident.”
The statement continued, “We extend our heartfelt sympathy to members of the immediate and the campus family. Counseling and support services are available on a 24-hour basis for students who need assistance during this difficult time.”

Watch Fox 5’s Omar Sykes Vigil story

View more videos at: http://nbcwashington.com.

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