Report: Ex-UConn, South Carolina player Eric Cobb accused of murdering his mother

Tragic News from Jacksonville, Florida

Good evening, I’m reporting live with breaking news out of Jacksonville, Florida, where former South Carolina and UConn basketball player, Eric Cobb, has been arrested and charged with the second-degree murder of his mother, Erika Winford. According to the Florida Times-Union, Cobb, a Jacksonville native, was taken into custody after his mother was found deceased in their backyard on Tuesday morning, wrapped in blankets and towels.

The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office confirmed they were called to the home for a wellness check after a family friend noticed “a large area of blood outside and what appeared to be a body wrapped in a blanket.” The friend had visited the home following concerns about Winford’s safety. It was reported that on Monday evening, a neighbor heard a woman screaming, “He’s going to kill me”, and another neighbor reported hearing multiple gunshots in the same time frame.

Upon arriving at the scene, authorities found Cobb alone inside the house. When they uncovered the body of Erika Winford, they discovered multiple gunshot wounds to her head, stomach, and left leg. Further examination revealed blood stains and bullet marks in the hallway, along with signs that the area had been partially cleaned.

Authorities also found disturbing evidence inside the home. At the foot of Cobb’s bed, officers discovered a soft case containing an AR-style rifle and a Smith & Wesson 9mm handgun, both with live rounds inside. Additionally, a trash bin nearby contained 14 spent 9mm shell casings.

A friend of Winford’s, who had spent Sunday with her, shared that she seemed fearful when he dropped her off at home. The following day, when the friend returned to check on her, there was no answer at the door. It was only after inspecting the rear of the property that he found the blood and blankets, prompting him to call authorities.

Reports reveal that Winford had previously expressed fear of her son, describing him as “possessed” and suffering from schizophrenia. She had also reportedly been worried about Cobb’s inability to afford his medication. Cobb’s other son disclosed that he had moved out over a month ago after an altercation with their mother, during which Cobb “cursed out” Winford.

Cobb, 28, had a tumultuous career in basketball. Standing at 6-foot-9, he played for both UConn and South Carolina between 2015 and 2019. His time at South Carolina ended abruptly in 2016 after he was dismissed following an arrest for shooting vehicles with a BB gun. Cobb then transferred to Chipola College and later rejoined UConn, where he played in 47 games, averaging 3.7 points and 3.8 rebounds during the 2018-19 season.

This is a developing story, and we will continue to follow any updates on this tragic incident.