TAMPA, Fla. — The family of former Plant High School football star turned NFL player Eric Patterson asked Monday evening for the person who shot and killed Patterson to come forward.

Patterson was murdered inside his home on West Plaza Place in Tampa early Saturday morning.

Police say the shooter broke into the home and Patterson’s roommate woke up to find Patterson on the ground shot and the killer in the room. That shooter reportedly ran from the house and into a white SUV.  

On Monday night, Patterson’s family, friends and former teammates held a candlelight vigil.

While praying with the group, Patterson’s uncle thanked God for the time He loaned Patterson to them. 

Patterson's father, Eric Sr., shared memories of his son and asked for the shooter to turn himself in.

“He was a good dude. He didn’t bother nobody. He played football and he stayed to his self,” said Eric Sr. “I just lost my son. They don’t know how painful it is. I’m just hoping and praying that whoever did it just turn themselves in.”

Patterson’s sister, Javonica, said her brother will be missed by all who knew him.

“Remember that he had a good heart," she said. "He’s a good person, he’s a good father. Y'all took him away for no reason. I don’t understand. Just come forward." 

If you have any information in this case, contact police or Crime Stoppers Tampa Bay at 1-800-873-TIPS. Crime Stoppers Tampa Bay is offering a $3,000 reward for tips that lead to the identification and arrest of the shooter in this case.