Father Charged in Fatal Shooting of Son, NFL RB Otis Anderson Jr.

By Kelton Brooks Published: December 1, 2021

Father Charged in Fatal Shooting of Son, NFL RB Otis Anderson Jr.

Los Angeles Rams running back Otis Anderson warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the Las Vegas Raiders Saturday, Aug. 21, 2021, in Inglewood, Calif. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)

In Summary

Otis Anderson Jr. was a college football star at UCF and was with the Los Angeles Rams for training camp this year before his untimely death.

The father of former University of Central Florida running back Otis Anderson Jr. was charged with fatally shooting and killing his son.

According to the Jacksonville Sherriff’s Office, Anderson Sr. shot his son inside their Jacksonville, Florida, home on Monday evening.

Denise, Anderson Jr.’s mother, told police the father and son got into an argument that quickly escalated, causing her to intervene. The argument settled between the father and son, but Denis told police that Anderson Sr. returned from the garage and met Anderson Jr. in the kitchen.

Police were called to the home and found Anderson Jr. suffering from at least one gunshot wound to the chest. He later died at the hospital.

Denise Anderson sustained multiple graze wounds and was hospitalized. She was later released.

Anderson Sr. was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and attempted first-degree murder. He is being held without bond. Anderson Sr. is due in court on Dec. 22.

Anderson Jr. was a star running back at UCF where in a three-year span, he amassed 2,182 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns. He was also a threat on the backfield, catching 91 passes for 1,025 yards and nine touchdowns.

Central Florida running back Otis Anderson (2) shares during the second half of an NCAA college football game against South Florida, Friday, Nov. 29, 2019, in Orlando, Fla. (AP Photo/Willie J. Allen Jr.)

He was beloved by several players and coaches. His former head coach, Josh Heupel, released a heartfelt statement about his former player on Twitter.

Saddened and stunned by the passing of Otis Anderson Jr. Tough and gritty, fun and full of laughter, he made such a positive impact on our university, community, and our locker room. He was an unbelievable teammate. My condolences go out to the entire UCF family. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/ehG9JyoL5Q
— Josh Heupel (@coachjoshheupel) November 30, 2021

The school also released a statement:

“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.”

Anderson Jr. was also with the Los Angeles Rams for training camp this year, who said he was “promising young man with a bright future,” adding, “Our sincere condolences are with his family during this very difficult time.”

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. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/riYTep6VLw
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) November 30, 2021