Florida Gang Member Nabbed in Death of Pastor’s Son at Church Where Dad Ministered

Authorities in Florida arrested a purported gang member accused of murdering a pastor’s son at the church where his dad ministered. 

Taquion “Quan” Cotton, 22, has been charged with first-degree murder, kidnapping and a slew of other charges, in connection with the slaying of 20-year old Roderick Wilson, Jr., according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. 

It’s unclear if he entered a plea to the charges or retained an attorney to comment on his behalf.

Sunday morning, authorities allege Cotton and Wilson, Jr., engaged in a physical confrontation in the Pentecostal Church of God parking lot in Winter Haven, Florida. 

Following the altercation, authorities allege Cotton drove away, only to return moments later with a gun. He allegedly shot Wilson, Jr. — the church pastor’s son — multiple times and left him for dead in the parking lot.

An hour later, a Good Samaritan spotted Wilson, Jr.’s, lifeless body and called 911. The victim was pronounced dead on the scene, said authorities. 

During a press conference Monday, Sheriff Grady Judd described Wilson, Jr., as a “solid, good young man,” who worked alongside his father at the church.

“Roderick was a Christian boy and he loved the Lord. Unfortunately, he got to see the Lord face-to-face a lot sooner than I’m sure he wanted to or should have,” said Judd.

Detectives worked with Cotton’s mother in tracking down the alleged killer. Judd said she was instrumental in her son’s arrest and provided several leads into his whereabouts.

Hours after the murder, Cotton was taken into custody outside his neighborhood, but not before authorities say he put a woman in a chokehold and demanded she let him into her residence in an effort to flee.

Cotton’s mother, who lives nearby and allegedly witnessed the incident, attempted to help officers apprehend her son. She was bitten by Cotton in the process.

“We appreciate Quan’s mama for doing the right thing,” Judd added.

Authorities continue to search for the firearm used in the commission of Wilson, Jr.’s, alleged slaying. 

A motive remains under investigation.

“Our goal is to send him [Cotton] to prison for the rest of his life for murdering a really good kid,” said Judd.