On Sunday, October 22, 2023, in Winter Haven, Florida, the community was rocked by the death of a 20-year-old man in the parking lot of the Pentecostal Church of God.
The victim, Roderick Wilson Jr., was the pastor’s son, making his death even more striking. He lived in an apartment located within the church’s compound.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has arrested 22-year-old Taquion “Quan” Cotton, who is now facing murder charges. A nearby establishment’s surveillance system recorded the face-off between the two young men, presenting a clear timeline to investigators.
The video began with a confrontation between Cotton and Wilson, marked by physical aggression. Cotton decided to leave, but not for long. He came back, leading to a fateful showdown. The recording showed the horrifying moments Cotton shot several times at Wilson, who was later discovered by an unsuspecting passerby around 2 a.m.
Sheriff Grady Judd shed light on the two men’s contrasting profiles. While Wilson Jr. was painted as an exemplary young man involved with the church activities, Cotton had a criminal history, including 11 felony and six misdemeanor arrests. Yet, none resulted in a felony conviction.
Cotton’s mother said she believes that her son was possessed by the Devil.
Following the incident, Cotton’s car was quickly spotted by law enforcement, a testament to the efficiency of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office’s homicide division. Cotton’s subsequent arrest was fraught with drama. He reportedly assailed a woman, trying to enter her home forcibly. The situation took a darker twist when Cotton’s mother stepped in, only to be bitten by her son. Ultimately, officers used a taser to restrain him.
The weapon Cotton allegedly used is yet to be found. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office hopes that a $5,000 reward will incentivize information regarding its recovery.
The root cause of the initial discord between Cotton and Wilson remains shrouded in mystery. Cotton lived a few block from the church and authorities have called for any additional information or testimonies to aid their ongoing inquiry.
Addressing the press, Sheriff Judd highlighted Wilson’s devoutness and the community’s shared sorrow. Ensuring that justice is served for the devastated family, Cotton now faces a slew of serious charges, encompassing first-degree murder, burglary with violent intent, and kidnapping.