The father of Lakers shooting guard Wayne Ellington was shot and killed Sunday in Germantown, a neighborhood in Philadelphia.
Ellington's 57-year-old father, who has his same name, was shot Sunday night in his car, the Philadelphia Inquirer reported. He later died at an area hospital.
By Tuesday night, police still had no suspects and no idea what motivated the shooting.
Ellington said Tuesday he was devastated by the killing and plans to take an indefinite leave of absence from the Lakers.
"My family and I are devastated by the news of my father's murder on Sunday night in Philadelphia," Ellington said in a statement Tuesday. "We appreciate everyone's support and ask that you respect the privacy of our family during this very difficult time."
In a statement, Lakers General Manager Mitch Kupchak also expressed grief over the killing and announced that Ellington would take an indefinite leave of absence. The leave was announced before the team's game against the Grizzlies, and coach Byron Scott told ESPN he would welcome Ellington "back with open arms when he decides to come back." However, Scott said he didn't know when that would be.
The Lakers signed Ellington in September.