Former Fordham softball player stabbed to death in New Jersey

____________________________________________________________________

[cnn-photo-caption image=http://i2.cdn.turner.com/cnn/2010/images/09/15/ayers.vert.fordham.jpg caption="Nicole Ayres was a pitcher at the university and was named rookie of the year in 2007, the school said. (Photo credit: Fordham University/www.fordham.edu)" width=292 height=320]

(CNN) - A former star athlete for Fordham University's softball team was stabbed to death near an athletic field in Southampton, New Jersey, and a man has been charged with murder, authorities said.

The body of Nicole Ayres, 22, of Westville, New Jersey, was found Monday morning, according to the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office. Investigators said she was stabbed multiple times in the head, neck and back.

Stephen Headley, 28, who was charged with murder, is being treated at a hospital after being hit by a truck shortly before his arrest, investigators said.

"This is a shocking and terrible loss," Fordham University President Joseph M. McShane said in a written statement. "I cannot imagine the grief Nicole's family must be feeling today, a grief intensified by the death of someone so young. Today the university community's hearts and prayers are with Nicole's family, friends and loved ones."

Ayres was a pitcher at the university and was named rookie of the year in 2007, the school said. Fordham said she attended the university for two years after having been a standout athlete at Deptford High School in New Jersey.

Authorities would not disclose a possible motive or discuss any details about the investigation, including whether the suspect knew the victim.

Follow the Falcon File on Twitter @FalconCNN