Tragic Discovery in Jacksonville
A heart-wrenching incident unfolded in Jacksonville, Florida, on a Monday morning when the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) responded to a call about a body found in a backyard on West 15th Street in the neighborhood of Durkeeville. The victim, 51-year-old Erika Winford, was discovered wrapped in blankets and towels, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound. The scene was grim and the community was shaken. As the investigation progressed, officers detained Eric Cobb, a 28-year-old man and former college basketball player, who was attempting to leave the property. After a thorough interview, detectives formally arrested him in connection with his mother’s murder.
Neighbors’ Alarming Testimonies
The initial investigation by the JSO revealed two key witnesses who lived in the vicinity of the crime scene. One witness recounted to the police that around 8:00 PM on Sunday, they heard a woman screaming, "He’s going to kill me." Another neighbor added that they heard multiple gunshots during the same time. Remarkably, neither of these witnesses called 911 at the time, a decision that has since raised questions and concerns about the community’s response to such emergencies. The accounts paint a picture of a night filled with fear and panic, yet the lack of immediate action underscores the complexities and hesitations that can arise in moments of crisis.
The Friend’s Disturbing Discovery
A critical piece of the puzzle came from a friend of someone living at the house where Erika Winford’s body was found. This friend became increasingly worried after being unable to reach the occupant by telephone. Driven by concern, they decided to visit the house in person. Upon arrival, the friend was met with a chilling sight: a large pool of blood and a body in the backyard. The discovery was made early Monday morning, and the friend immediately contacted the authorities. This act of vigilance and concern played a crucial role in the swift response of the JSO and the eventual arrest of Eric Cobb.
Eric Cobb’s Basketball Career
Eric Cobb, the accused, has a background that stands in stark contrast to the tragic event he is now linked to. He played college basketball for three seasons, starting at the University of South Carolina for one year. During his time there, Cobb showed promise but did not secure a significant role in the team. He then transferred to the University of Connecticut (UConn), where he played for two seasons from 2017 to 2019. At UConn, Cobb faced challenges, including a suspension in January 2018 due to "conduct detrimental to the team." This suspension was a setback but not the end of his basketball journey; Cobb later rejoined the Huskies and continued his college career.
Cobb’s On-Court Performance
Throughout his college basketball career, Cobb achieved modest but respectable statistics. He averaged 2.4 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 0.3 assists per game. Over the 71 games he played, Cobb’s average time on the court was just over eight minutes per game. While these numbers do not place him among the elite players, they reflect his dedication and the opportunities he had to pursue his passion for the sport. His brief suspension in 2018 suggested that he had faced some personal or behavioral issues, but his return to the team indicated a willingness to address and overcome these challenges.
A Community in Shock
The arrest of Eric Cobb has left the Jacksonville community profoundly shaken. Erika Winford’s neighbors and friends find it difficult to reconcile the horrifying crime with the man they knew as a former athlete with a promising future. The incident highlights the often hidden struggles that individuals may face and the unpredictable nature of life. As the investigation continues, questions about Cobb’s mental health, personal relationships, and the events leading up to the murder are likely to arise. The community is rallying to support the family and ensure that justice is served, while also grappling with the deep emotional impact of this tragic event.
