DEVELOPING:
O.J. Simpson, the Hall of Fame running back who was acquitted of double murder in the death of his ex-wife and her friend, has died from cancer. He was 76.
The former NFL star and actor, who attracted widespread media attention during the murder trial in the 1990s, died Wednesday, his family said in a statement on X.
“He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren,” Simpson’s family wrote on his X account. “During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.”
On April 10th, our father, Orenthal James Simpson, succumbed to his battle with cancer.
— O.J. Simpson (@TheRealOJ32) April 11, 2024
He was surrounded by his children and grandchildren.
During this time of transition, his family asks that you please respect their wishes for privacy and grace.
-The Simpson Family
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Simpson rose to fame as a running back for USC in the 1960s, earning two All-American selections. He was the top pick in the 1969 NFL draft for the Buffalo Bills.
The San Francisco native’s star continued to rise in the NFL as he became the first player to rush for 2,000 yards in a season. In 11 seasons, Simpson was named a first-team All-Pro five times and made six Pro Bowl appearances.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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