Lakers Shooting Guard Wayne Ellington's Father Fatally Shot In Philadelphia

EL SEGUNDO (CBS/AP) — Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Wayne Ellington has been granted an indefinite leave of absence Tuesday following the murder of his father Sunday night in Philadelphia.

"My family and I are devastated by the news of my father's murder on Sunday night in Philadelphia," Ellington said in a statement. "We appreciate everyone's support and ask that you respect the privacy of our family during this very difficult time."

Police said 57-year-old Wayne Ellington was found shot in the head in the driver's seat of a car in the Germantown section of northwest Philadelphia just after 8 p.m. Sunday.

The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that he was taken to Einstein Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead later that night. No arrests have been reported.

"Our players are upset for their friend and teammate. Additionally, ownership and all Lakers employees are also saddened by this tragedy," Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak said in a statement. "Those of us who work with and have gotten to know Wayne have come to know what a wonderful and caring person he is. Our hearts go out to Wayne and his family, as do our thoughts and prayers."

It's not known when Ellington will rejoin the team.

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