Medrick Burnett Jr., a football player at Alabama A&M University, tragically passed away following a head injury he sustained during a game against Alabama State in late October. The 20-year-old linebacker, who hailed from Lakewood, California, succumbed to his injuries at UAB Hospital, as confirmed by the Jefferson County coroner’s office on Friday. His exact cause of death was not disclosed.
Burnett began his football journey at Grambling State University in Louisiana before transferring to Alabama A&M, where he participated in seven games and made five tackles, including three during a contest against Austin Peay.
In a distressing turn of events, the university’s athletic department initially reported on Tuesday that Burnett had died, based on information they received from a family member. They later had to retract the statement when they learned from hospital representatives that he was still alive. The school expressed regret for the confusion but took a moment to acknowledge the hope they felt knowing Burnett was in stable condition at that time.
Despite the unfortunate news, a GoFundMe campaign established to support Burnett and his family has seen significant support, raising over $48,000 as of Friday, reflecting the community’s efforts to rally behind him in this difficult situation.
This unfortunate event highlights the inherent risks associated with contact sports, reiterating the importance of safety measures and awareness in football. The outpouring of support for Burnett and his family serves as a testament to the close-knit nature of the athletic community and its resolve to uplift those in need.
Summary: Medrick Burnett Jr., a linebacker for Alabama A&M, died from a head injury sustained during a game last month. Initially misreported as deceased earlier this week, the school later retracted the statement upon learning he was alive. A GoFundMe has raised over $48,000 in support for Burnett’s family, demonstrating community solidarity in times of crisis.