UPDATE: Peterson’s son died on Friday night, according to the police.
Adrian Peterson asks for privacy, plans to play on Sunday
The Minnesota Vikings running back addressed the media Friday afternoon concerning the assault of his son by a South Dakota man.
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson made a brief statement to reporters Friday afternoon pertaining to an alleged assault on his two-year-old son in South Dakota on Thursday.
Peterson said that he plans to play in this week’s game against the Carolina Panthers. He then thanked fans for their support and asked that his family’s privacy be respected. Sean Jenson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reported details from Peterson’s statement via Twitter.
Adrian Peterson said he plans to play. "I'm able to release a lot of stress through sports."
— Sean Jensen (@seankjensen) October 11, 2013
#Vikings RB Adrian Peterson: "I really appreciate all the support from fans and the Vikings. I ask y'all respect my privacy."
— Sean Jensen (@seankjensen) October 11, 2013
Peterson’s son was taken to the hospital Wednesday when Joseph Robert Patterson called police to report choking injuries to the child. Doctors determined that the boy’s injuries were consistent with abuse. Patterson, 27, was arrested and charged with aggravated assault and aggravated battery on an infant. Patterson is reportedly the boyfriend of the child’s mother, and was home with the child on Wednesday when the incident allegedly occurred.
Nelson Peterson, Adrian’s father, confirmed that the child involved in the incident was one of Adrian’s children. He added that it was not Adrian, Jr., as had been reported by several outlets on Friday morning. The last confirmed report said that the boy was in critical condition.
Bond for Patterson was set at $750,000 at a Friday morning hearing, according to the Argus Leader.
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