Otis Lee Anderson Jr., 23, a former UCF running back from Jacksonville, Florida, was shot dead at his family home on November 29, 2021. The fatal confrontation began after Anderson Sr. was bitten by his son’s girlfriend’s dog; an argument between father and son escalated when Anderson Jr. came downstairs to check on the commotion. Their mother attempted to calm the situation but the dispute intensified and Otis Lee Anderson Sr. retrieved a firearm from the garage and shot his son in the chest. Anderson Jr.’s mother was grazed by a bullet during the incident.

Otis Lee Anderson Sr. was arrested and initially charged with second-degree murder and attempted second-degree murder. He claimed self-defense, saying his son charged at him, and prosecutors announced there was sufficient evidence to proceed with charges. The death shocked the local community and cut short the life of an athlete widely regarded for his college football career and promise.

If anyone saw or heard anything at the family home that night or has information about the events leading up to the shooting, please come forward.