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PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jacquelyn Savani (609) 258-5729
Date: March 24, 1997


Richard Modica

PRINCETON, N.J.--Princeton, N.J.--Richard Modica, a Princeton University sophomore from Pleasantville, NY, was killed Saturday, March 22, at about 7:40 p.m., when the car he was riding in was rear-ended on Interstate 95 near St. Augustine, Fla. He was 20 years old.

At the time of the accident, Modica and 11 other Princeton students, all members of the a cappella singing group known as the Tigertones, were traveling back to Princeton from Naples, Fla., after a series of concerts during spring break. The students were traveling in two vehicles: a rented recreational vehicle and the car carrying Modica. The recreational vehicle was not involved in the crash. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the accident.

Modica had been music director of the Tigertones since December. He also founded a group called the Princeton Symphonic Wind Ensemble. Last September he performed in the Princeton University Players production of The Fantastiks . He was a member of the Orange Key Guide Service and a resident of Forbes College. He graduated from Pleasantville High School in 1995.

Modica is survived by his parents, Frank and Angela Modica of Pleasantville; a sister, Michelle; and a brother, Frank. Plans are being made for a funeral in Pleasantville and a memorial service at Princeton.