How did Otis Anderson die? Former NFL player killed in tragic incident聽
The football world was shaken by reports that former NFL running back Otis Anderson Jr. died in Jacksonville yesterday. He was 23. Tributes poured in on social media from former teammates and other NFL players, obviously devastated by the tragic news.
But how did Otis Anderson die?
Otis Anderson shot dead by father
Minutes after news of his passing broke, the football world was even more baffled by the cause behind his death.
Per an arrest report released by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, Anderson's mother, Denise, told police that the former NFL star and his father, Otis Anderson Sr., got into a heated argument that escalated. Anderson Sr. then went to the garage and returned to the kitchen with a gun before shooting his son.
Apparently former UCF & LA Rams RB Otis Anderson Jr. was shot and killed by his father last night and his mother was shot and wounded and currently in critical condition, this is absolutely heartbreaking and horrific news to wake up to #UCFamily #RIPGumby 馃槥馃檹 https://t.co/VhfyPvC7kE
Police arrived at the scene and found Anderson Jr. with a gunshot wound to his chest. He was rushed to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Denise Anderson also suffered multiple graze wounds and had to be hospitalized. She was later discharged.
Otis Anderson Sr. was charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder. He's currently being held without bond and will appear in court on December 22nd.
Otis Anderson Jr.'s football career
Otis Anderson Jr. played for UCF from 2017 to 2020 and was an impactful running back. He rushed for 2,187 yards and 17 touchdowns and hauled in 91 receptions for 1,025 yards and nine touchdowns during his time with the program.
Anderson Jr. went undrafted in the 2021 NFL draft but later signed as a free agent with the Los Angeles Rams. He couldn't make the team's final roster and was cut during training camp. UCF and the Rams posted tributes for the late running back.
UCF wrote:
"He was revered by his teammates, our fans, and everyone within Knight Nation."
We have now confirmed and are devastated to hear of the passing of Otis Anderson Jr. He was revered by his teammates, our fans, and everyone within Knight Nation.
Our deepest condolences go out to everyone who loved Otis. He was taken too soon and will truly be missed. https://t.co/b99DfoDytl
The Rams posted the following tribute to Otis Anderson Jr.:
The Rams are saddened by the tragic and sudden loss of Otis Anderson Jr. Our sincere condolences are with his family during this very difficult time.
Rest In Peace, Otis. 馃檹 https://t.co/riYTep6VLw
Rams players pay tribute to Otis Anderson Jr.
Multiple Los Angeles Rams players took to social media to pay tribute to their former teammate from training camp.
Superstar Jalen Ramsey said:
Rest in Heaven Otis 馃檹馃従
We gotta do better on this earth smh. Big prayers up 馃檹馃従
Florida native and Rams tight end Jacob Harris said:
Can鈥檛 believe this is real. RIP 2馃枻
Everyone at Sportskeeda extends our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of Otis Anderson Jr. and everyone affected by this tragedy.