Otis Anderson Jr., a former standout for the UCF football team, was reportedly shot and killed at his home in Jacksonville, Florida.
Ashley Harding from News 4 in Jacksonville reported police arrived at the scene on Monday night where they found a man and woman shot. The man, who is said to be Anderson, died in the hospital while the woman, his mother Denise, has not been reported dead. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the incident happened around 9:30 p.m.
Anderson was 23 years old.
Shortly after reports began making the rounds on social media, it was reported that Anderson’s father was arrested and booked. Anderson Sr. has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder. He is not eligible for bond.
Investigators believe it was a domestic dispute and no other individuals were involved.
A number of Anderson’s former teammates took to social media to tweet out tributes and express their disbelief and heartbreak by the news.
— Livin215 (@livin215) November 30, 2021
During his time at UCF, “Juice” rushed for 2,182 yards, racked up 1,025 receiving yards, and scored 26 total touchdowns. Anderson briefly spent time on the Los Angeles Rams practice squad at the beginning of this season.
“The Rams are saddened by the tragic and sudden loss of Otis Anderson Jr.,” the Rams said in a statement. “He was with us in training camp, preseason, and started the regular season on our practice squad. He was a promising young man with a bright future.”
Our deepest condolences go out to the Anderson family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
You can see some of the reactions to Anderson’s passing below.
Thank you Marc. My brief interaction with him was special – he cared very deeply for UCF. I’m hopeful that all who knew him can somehow find peace, especially his teammates. https://t.co/NnQEivTswG
— Terry Mohajir (@TerryMohajirAD) November 30, 2021
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
RIP JUICE! Love you 2! ❤️
— Dillon Gabriel (@_dillongabriel_) November 30, 2021
Nooooooooo!!!!! What happened!!!!!!!!! This not real …😭 R.I.P Otis Aka Goatis!! UCF forever!! My Running back 4Life
— Tay Gowan (@focused_4) November 30, 2021
She is my Sister and my heart is DESTROYED for her there are not enough words that can even be spoken to understand losing your only son I love you @nymzdee 💔🙏🏾‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️‼️💙 pic.twitter.com/rQfz5AAy5u
— DSnelsonMom-UCFMOMFOREVER‼️ (@Mia8753) November 30, 2021
Otis Anderson Jr. had a smile that would light up a room. It was so much fun talking with this young man during his time at #UCF. I’m stunned by the news today. Thoughts are with his family and friends.
— Matt Murschel (@osmattmurschel) November 30, 2021
Such heartbreaking news to wake up to this morning about former @UCF_Football and @UCChristians football star Otis Anderson Jr. Great kid. So many stories about him signing autographs for people at UCF, encouraging kids, etc. Was a stud at UC and even better in college. pic.twitter.com/aIUmUKOwo8
— Justin Barney (@JustinBarneyTV) November 30, 2021
Man, this Otis Anderson Jr. news is absolutely heartbreaking 💔
RIP to a UCF legend 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/EIonyysIh5
— Kenny Morales (@KennyMoralesTV) November 30, 2021
I loss one of my closest friends last night, I am not okay.
— Kelton Jordan Johnson (@3rdJohnsonboy) November 30, 2021
That is all the information that is available at this time. This article will be updated with new and relevant information should it become available at any time. If there is anything that we missed, please feel free to send an email to [email protected] and we will respond as soon as possible.
