- O.J. Simpson, the former NFL star whose murder trial riveted the world in the '90s, passed away Wednesday from prostate cancer at the age of 76, according to a social media post by his family on X, formerly Twitter. Associated Press (LR: 3 CP: 5)
- Simpson was reportedly diagnosed with cancer in February, and reports claimed he was in hospice while undergoing chemotherapy. NBC (a) (LR: 2 CP: 4)
- Simpson never elaborated on his cancer diagnosis and rejected reports that he was in hospice. In his last posts on social media in February, Simpson said he was in good health and was "just about over" some "health issues." Independent (LR: 2 CP: 3)
- A superstar running back in both college and the NFL, Simpson was one of the country’s most beloved athletes during the '60s and '70s. However, his reputation changed when he was charged with the murder of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson, and Ronald Goldman in June 1994. ESPN.com
- Millions watched police chase Simpson in his iconic Ford Bronco through California freeways after the crime was uncovered. The subsequent trial was one of the most famous criminal proceedings in American history, and he was found not guilty in 1995. Yahoo Sports
- In 1997, Simpson was found guilty of the murders by a civil jury under a lower standard of proof. He was ordered to pay Ron Goldman's father, Fred, $33M. NBC (b) (LR: 2 CP: 4)
Narrative A:
- Simpson's story is deeply tragic and symbolic as he passed after a civil jury found him guilty of what he was accused of doing to Brown Simpson and Goldman. Simpson's death should be a reminder of those he took from their families in the '90s and an inspiration to support all victims and survivors of violent crimes.
NBC (LR: 2 CP: 4)
Narrative B:
- In death, as in life, Simpson should stand as a reminder of the racial tensions that continue to exist in the US — particularly between Black America and law enforcement. Many Black individuals celebrated Simpson's acquittal not because they thought he was innocent but because they felt it made up for many previous injustices. Thirty years later, there's still more work to be done.
WASHINGTON POST (LR: 2 CP: 5)