Teen football star Michael Blidi Jr. paralyzed in Minnesota shooting, family rallies for recovery

Michael Blidi Jr., an 18-year-old football standout from Minnesota, was left paralyzed from the knees down after a shooting outside his Brooklyn Park home. The aspiring athlete, who had earned a full scholarship to Iowa Central Community College, was preparing to chase his football dreams when he was struck by gunfire in the early hours of May 29.

Michael Blidi Jr is determined to fight despite being paralyzed

According to police reports, the shooting followed a prior altercation during a basketball game. Blidi had reportedly punched one of the suspects days earlier, prompting threats both in person and on social media. On the night of the shooting, men wearing ski masks drove by and opened fire, striking Blidi in the lower back.

Doctors later confirmed that the bullet caused multiple spinal fractures and lodged fragments in his spinal canal. “The doctor came to me and said, ‘He’s not going to walk again,’ and that broke my heart,” said his father, Michael Blidi Sr., in an interview.

Undeterred by the devastating diagnosis, Blidi Jr. is holding fast to hope and determination. From his hospital bed, he told WCCO he hopes to walk—and even play football—again someday.

GoFundMe fundraiser created

Blidi’s family has launched a GoFundMe campaign titled “Help Michael Blidi Jr. Walk Again”, which has raised over $16,000 toward its $30,000 goal. The funds will support medical expenses, rehabilitation, and adaptive equipment as Blidi begins the long road to recovery.

Blidi Jr., who hails from a football family—his brother, Philip Blidi, plays for the Tennessee Titans—is now focused on healing and defying the odds. “We’re just thankful he’s alive,” said his father. “We’ll hope that this turns out for the best”.

Four men have been charged in connection with the shooting, including one suspected of being the gunman. The investigation remains ongoing.