Auburn running back Brian Battie is facing a potentially life-altering prognosis following a tragic shooting earlier this month that resulted in the death of his brother, Tommie Battie.
According to court documents obtained by the Tampa Bay Times, the college football star might be permanently paralyzed due to his injuries.
The incident occurred when Brian and Tommie were walking in their neighborhood and were suddenly attacked. Darryl Brookins allegedly drew a gun and fired 12 or 13 shots at them from a short distance. The shooting happened in a crowded parking lot with around 200 people present.
Brian, who is 22 years old, remains hospitalized since the May 18 incident. Despite the grim prognosis, he is reportedly “getting better.”
“To honor the family, I don’t want to go into too many things, but they appreciate all the prayers, for sure,” Auburn coach Hugh Freeze told reporters at the SEC’s spring meetings. “It’s been a difficult time for the whole family, but he seems to be getting better each day,” Freeze added.
Deputies responding to the scene reported finding a large crowd and multiple shooting victims. The sheriff’s office described the incident as isolated but did not disclose what led to the violence.
Brookins, 28, was arrested and charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of a firearm by a felon. He allegedly killed 24-year-old Tommie and wounded several others.
Coach Freeze previously urged fans to pray for Brian, who was in critical condition and on a ventilator following the shooting. “Auburn family, please continue to pray for Brian Battie. There was a setback last night, and he’s still on a ventilator,” Freeze wrote on X.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to support the Battie family, confirming Tommie’s passing. “On May 18, 2024, the Battie family received the most devastating news that Tommie and Brian were victims of a senseless shooting,” the message read. “It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we have to share the unexpected passing of Tommie Battie IV (Pooh). Brian Battie remains in critical condition at a local hospital.”
Brian Battie had a standout career at South Florida, rushing for 1,842 yards and scoring 10 touchdowns over three seasons. He transferred to Auburn for the 2023 season, where he rushed 51 times for 227 yards and a touchdown.
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