Brother of Louisville's Garcia killed

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -- The brother of Louisville sophomore forward Francisco Garcia was fatally shot in the Bronx, N.Y., according to authorities.

Hector Lopez, 19, died Monday night, according to New York City police.

Police responded to a call of a male shot in the lobby of an apartment building at 11:12 p.m. EST on Monday.

Officers discovered a man unconscious with gunshot wounds to his chest and neck, police said. He was taken to Lincoln Hospital, where he died at 11:27 p.m.

The victim was identified as Lopez on Tuesday and Garcia learned of the death later that day, said Louisville sports information director Kenny Klein.

Police have made no arrests in the shooting.

Louisville Coach Rick Pitino issued a statement Wednesday saying Garcia was devastated over the loss of his only brother.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this very difficult time," Pitino said. "He will continue to stay strong with the aid of his teammates and coaches.

"We will make every effort to help him through this grieving process day-by-day."

Klein said Garcia was playing Wednesday night, when Louisville played Seton Hall at Freedom Hall. Garcia planned to travel to New York City on Thursday, Klein said.

The 6-foot-7 Garcia is Louisville's leading scorer, averaging 17.3 points per game. He matched a career high with 24 points in the Cardinals' 56-40 win over Holy Cross on Sunday.

Garcia was not immediately available for comment. Klein said Garcia wanted to return in time to play in the Cardinals' home game against No. 1 Florida on Saturday.