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PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
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Princeton, New Jersey 08544-5264
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Date: March 23, 1999
Freshman Matthew Weiner Dies Suddenly
PRINCETON, N.J., March 23 -- Matthew Weiner, a Princeton freshman from Medford, N.J., died last evening after collapsing during a game of pick-up basketball on the University campus. He was 19.
He was pronounced dead at The Medical Center of Princeton at approximately 6:30 p.m. Emergency physicians cited "sudden cardiac arrest" as the cause of death. The Mercer County Medical Examiner's Office will attempt to determine the cause of the cardiac arrest, according to hospital officials.
Weiner came to Princeton from the Peddie School in Hightstown, N.J., where he graduated with high honors. In his sophomore and junior years at Peddie, he was chosen an Academic All-American by Swimming World magazine. In 1997, he was a finalist in the 200-yard butterfly at the Summer Junior Nationals. He also coached swimming events at Special Olympics held at Peddie each spring.
At Princeton, Weiner studied Latin and architecture and indicated an interest in becoming an architect. An avid swimmer, he participated in eight intercollegiate varsity meets, including the Eastern Intercollegiate Swimming League championships. His preferred events were the 200-yard butterfly, the 400-yard individual medley, and the 500-yard freestyle. He was a resident of Wilson College.
Survivors include his parents, Thomas J. and Beverly Anne LoBiondo Weiner of Medford; a twin sister, Cristina Marie, and a brother, Kevin S.
Funeral arrangements are pending. A memorial service will be held on the Princeton campus at a later date.