Orange County

Shaquille O’Neal to pay for funeral of slain Ocoee High senior who committed to Louisville, report says

ORLANDO, Fla. — Hall of Famer and former Orlando Magic star Shaquille O’Neal has stepped up in a big way to cover the funeral costs of an Ocoee High School football player that was shot and killed late Saturday evening, according to ESPN.

ESPN said O’Neal decided to move forward with the gesture after hearing about the death of 18-year-old Dexter Rentz.

The shooting was reported shortly after 11:15 p.m. at Elese Street and Deerock Drive, near Raleigh Street and South Ivey Lane. Three others were also shot in the incident, but all are expected to survive.

Read: Ocoee High senior recruited by Louisville killed in Orlando shooting that left 3 others injured

An arrest has not been made in connection with the shooting. Orlando police have offered a $5,000 reward for anyone who may have information that could lead to an arrest.

O’Neal, who still lives in Orlando, decided to pay for all funeral expenses, including a horse and carriage and custom-made casket after speaking with Rentz’s parents, according to ESPN.

Rentz signed on to play for the University of Louisville in December.

Christopher Boyce, WFTV.com

Christopher Boyce joined WFTV in January of 2019.