Positive Injury Updates for Brian Battie Amid Return
Auburn running back Brian Battie is making progress in his recovery following a tragic shooting incident in Florida last month.
Battie’s family provided a significant medical update on a GoFundMe page on Wednesday, addressing earlier concerns that he could be left permanently paralyzed.
“Brian is still in the ICU, but on Saturday, he was able to give a ‘thumbs up’ to his mom with his left hand and showed movement in his left leg,” the message read. “The right side of his body hadn’t shown movement until two days ago, but by the grace of God, Brian was able to move his right knee and leg.”
The family described the 22-year-old as a “fighter” in his “miracle” recovery from the shooting, which also resulted in the death of his older brother Tommie.
“Brian had the ventilator removed this morning and required a tracheotomy. He has a long journey ahead, and the Battie family continues to need everyone’s support and prayers as they grieve the loss of Pooh, while hoping for Brian’s positive recovery,” the statement continued.
“We thank everyone for the support, generosity, and prayers that have blessed the Battie family thus far and pray that it continues to lift them through this unimaginable tragedy.”
Over 1,000 people have donated more than $107,000 to the family via the fundraising page.
Court documents obtained by the Tampa Bay Times suggest that Brian may end up permanently paralyzed. According to a probable cause affidavit from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office, Brian and Tommie were “walking in the area” when a man named Darryl Brookins opened fire on them.
Authorities accuse Brookins of firing 12 to 13 shots in a parking lot where around 200 people were present. The shooting appeared to be an isolated incident, though the motive remains unclear.
Brookins, 28, was arrested and charged with murder, attempted murder, and possession of a firearm as a felon last week. He allegedly killed 24-year-old Tommie and wounded multiple others.
The GoFundMe page set up for the Battie family confirmed Tommie’s passing. “On May 18, 2024, the Battie family received the devastating news that Tommie and Brian were victims of a senseless shooting,” the message stated. “It is with great sadness and a heavy heart that we share the unexpected passing of Tommie Battie IV (Pooh). Brian Battie remains in critical condition at a local hospital.”
Brian Battie rushed for 1,842 yards and scored 10 touchdowns across three seasons at South Florida. He transferred to Auburn for the 2023 season, rushing 51 times for 227 yards and a touchdown.
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