A former college football standout was senselessly gunned down in Florida by his father following an argument they had over a dog bite, officials said Tuesday.
The 23-year-old, who played at UCF from 2017 to 2020, died Monday after his father, Otis Anderson Sr., was bitten by a dog belonging to his son’s girlfriend, according to the Orlando Sentinel. The report says he “was bleeding throughout the house.”
The report quoted Anderson Sr. as saying that “Anderson Jr. charged at him” and that his son “had never disrespected him before this incident.”
Anderson’s mother, Denise, told investigators her husband got upset after being bitten, which set off a chain of events that led to a confrontation between the three that escalated to gunfire.
Cops responded to a 911 call and found Anderson with at least one gunshot wound to the chest and Denise with multiple graze wounds. Both were rushed to a hospital, but Anderson Jr. did not survive. His mother has been treated and released.
52-year-old Anderson Sr. is facing charges of murder and attempted murder.
UCF Football tweeted a tribute Tuesday to Anderson, whose nickname was “Juice.”
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“He was revered by his teammates, our fans, and everyone within Knight Nation,” the post read. “Our deepest condolences go out to everyone who loved Otis. He was taken too soon and will truly be missed.”
He ranks ninth all-time at UCF with 2,182 career rushing yards. He also ran for 17 touchdowns and caught nine others as a receiver.
The undrafted player spent training camp with the Los Angeles Rams, but was cut from the team’s practice squad in September.
“Rest in Heaven Otis,” Rams star cornerback Jalen Ramsey tweeted. “We gotta do better on this earth smh.”
Jacksonville Sheriff Mike Williams told the station investigators were “mourning” with the Anderson family as they navigate the “incredible” tragedy.
“While the investigation continues to be carried out, we would encourage everyone to keep the family in your prayers as they work through this very difficult time,” Williams said in a statement.
