As police investigate the sudden death of a central Pennsylvania college student, his father remembers him as a "kind and generous" person.
Eric Phillips was hanging out with friends in the common room of a dorm at Franklin & Marshall College early Sunday when he collapsed, his father Byron Phillips confirmed to NBC10.
Eric's friends immediately called for help, but he could not be revived. He was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital, according to college officials.
“He was a very kind and generous person, quick with a smile and bear hug for anyone who needed one," Byron Phillips said of his son.
The 20-year-old sophomore did not have any underlying medical conditions, according to his father. He says it appears cadiomyopthy, a heart muscle disease, took Eric's life.
"He was the only child between my ex-wife and myself and he will be missed," Byron said.
The Lancaster County corner is expected to perform an autopsy Monday to determine the exact cause of death. Franklin & Marshall officials say police are investigating the incident.
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“We remain in a state of mourning and loss," Franklin & Marshall Vice President for Communications Cass Cliatt said. "We are focused on supporting each other and celebrating Eric’s life."
Funeral arrangements for the Oakland, Calif.-native have not been set yet, but an on-campus memorial service is planned for Wednesday at 11 a.m. Byron says he and Eric's mother Sherri Pittman plan to be there.
