FSU Freshman Linebacker Ethan Pritchard in Critical but Stable Condition After Shooting
Florida State University linebacker Ethan Pritchard is in critical but stable condition after being shot while visiting family in Havana Florida The investigation continues as the football community rallies in support .
Incident Details
Ethan Pritchard a freshman linebacker for Florida State University was seriously injured in a shooting late on Sunday night August 31 while visiting family in Havana Florida The incident occurred just before 10 p m near the Havana Heights Apartments Deputies from the Gadsden County Sheriffs Office responded to the scene and found Pritchard inside a vehicle He was removed from the vehicle and immediately transported by emergency medical teams to a hospital in the Tallahassee area .
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Condition and Hospitalization
As of Monday September 1 Pritchard remains in critical but stable condition in the intensive care unit Doctors continue to monitor his progress closely and he is receiving around the clock medical attention His family teammates and coaches are maintaining hope for his recovery as he continues to fight through this critical stage .
University and Family Statements
Florida State University released a statement expressing appreciation for the outpouring of prayers and support from fans and the broader community The university also thanked first responders and hospital staff for their quick and professional care The Pritchard family while overwhelmed by the concern has requested privacy during this difficult time University officials have pledged to provide updates as soon as they become available .
Coach Mike Norvell Speaks Out
FSU head coach Mike Norvell who visited Pritchard and his family in the hospital called the situation extremely tragic He emphasized the teams commitment to supporting their young linebacker and praised the medical personnel working tirelessly to stabilize him The entire Seminoles family is rallying around Ethan and his loved ones Norvell said highlighting the unity and strength of the football program in moments of crisis .
Investigation Underway
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement FDLE has taken the lead in investigating the shooting working alongside the Gadsden County Sheriffs Office Authorities have not yet released detailed information about the circumstances of the incident Officials are encouraging anyone with knowledge of the events that night to contact law enforcement .
Possible Case of Mistaken Identity
Early reports suggest the possibility that Pritchard may have been the victim of mistaken identity While investigators have not confirmed this theory it is one angle they are pursuing More details are expected to surface as the inquiry progresses but at this stage authorities are being cautious about drawing conclusions .
Pritchards Background and College Football Journey
A native of Sanford Florida Ethan Pritchard was regarded as one of the top linebacker recruits in the state Standing 6 foot 2 and weighing 224 pounds he joined Florida State University earlier this summer as a four star prospect Pritchard had offers from several powerhouse programs including Miami UCF and Florida before committing to FSU .
Although he did not play in the Seminoles season opener a thrilling 31–17 upset over No 8 Alabama on August 30 Pritchard was considered a promising addition to the roster and a player with significant potential for the future .
Community Support and Reactions
Since news of the shooting broke messages of support have poured in from across the country Fans rival programs and fellow athletes have shared prayers and well wishes on social media One Miami Hurricanes fan wrote under an FSU post Prayers up from the Miami fanbase Some things are larger than football .
Karl Calhoun Pritchards high school coach has also publicly called for prayers noting that he remains in touch with the family as they navigate this crisis The collective response underscores the widespread respect and concern for Pritchard beyond his contributions on the field .
Summary
Florida State freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard remains in critical but stable condition after a shooting in Havana Florida on August 31 While the investigation continues under the FDLE reports point to the possibility of mistaken identity In the meantime the FSU football community fans and Pritchards hometown supporters are rallying to offer prayers and strength for his recovery His family continues to request privacy while focusing on his health and healing .