Former UConn Basketball Player Charged With Murder of His Mother

Eric Cobb, a former college basketball player who once competed for the University of Connecticut and the University of South Carolina, has been charged with second-degree murder in connection with the death of his mother. Authorities in Jacksonville, Florida, arrested the 28-year-old on February 10 after discovering the body of 51-year-old Erika Winford wrapped in blankets and towels in the backyard of her home. An autopsy determined that she had been shot in the head.

Police were called to the Durkeeville residence after neighbors reported hearing gunshots and a woman screaming, “He’s going to kill me.” Cobb, who lived with his mother, was apprehended as he attempted to leave the property. Inside the home, officers found multiple bullet holes in the hallway, a Smith & Wesson 9mm semiautomatic handgun, an AR-style rifle, and spent shell casings discarded in a trash can. Investigators believe an effort had been made to clean the scene before their arrival.

Winford had reportedly confided in friends about her growing fear of her son, whom she described as schizophrenic and struggling to afford his medication. Her concerns, tragically, appear to have preceded her death. Authorities have not commented on whether Cobb was receiving medical treatment or if his mental health history will factor into his defense.

Cobb’s past includes disciplinary issues dating back to his college basketball career. In 2016, he was dismissed from the South Carolina team following an arrest for shooting a BB gun at an occupied vehicle. No injuries were reported, but the incident derailed his standing in the program. Two years later, he faced suspension from UConn for what was described as “conduct deemed detrimental to the team,” though he was later reinstated. His professional career never materialized—after going undrafted in 2019, he played briefly in Croatia before returning to the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As the case moves forward, Cobb remains in custody at Duval County Jail. Prosecutors have not disclosed whether additional charges will be filed. The investigation continues, with law enforcement officials reviewing evidence from the crime scene, witness statements, and Cobb’s history with law enforcement.