Crime & Justice
FSU Linebacker Ethan Pritchard released from hospital, begins rehabilitation
Pritchard was released from Tallahassee Memorial Hospital on Oct. 9 and transferred to Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville.
Florida State University freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard is showing signs of recovery after surviving a gunshot wound to the head.
FSU Linebacker Ethan Pritchard Released
Pritchard was released from Tallahassee Memorial Hospital on Oct. 9 and transferred to Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, according to a joint statement from FSU and his father, Earl Pritchard.
What happened to Ethan Pritchard?
The 18-year-old athlete was shot on Aug. 31 while driving his aunt home from a family gathering in Havana, Florida. Police say the incident was a case of mistaken identity. Pritchard’s vehicle resembled one targeted by the shooters. All four suspects have since been arrested.
Initially sedated in intensive care, Pritchard spent over a month on life support. Now, he is breathing mostly on his own, moving his arms, turning his head, and opening his eyes. His father says Ethan is alert, responsive, and able to communicate.
The Seminoles linebacker missed FSU’s season opener against Alabama, which took place the day before the shooting. Ranked No. 507 nationally and No. 54 among linebackers in the 2025 class, Pritchard had not yet made his collegiate debut.
Support for the FSU Linebacker
Despite the tragedy, support for Pritchard has poured in from across Florida. Hundreds of schoolchildren have sent handwritten cards to lift his spirits. A GoFundMe campaign has raised over $143,000 to help cover medical costs and family expenses.
Pritchard’s father confirmed his son watched FSU’s Oct. 4 game against Miami. The moment marked a milestone in his recovery.
As Ethan begins rehabilitation, his family remains hopeful. They ask for continued prayers and support as he works toward healing.
“Ethan’s journey is far from over,” Earl said. “But he’s not walking it alone.”
For updates on Ethan Pritchard’s recovery or to support his GoFundMe here.
Real stories. Real impact. Straight to your inbox. Join thousands others. Click here to subscribe to our newsletter today!
Follow us on Facebook, X, TikTok, Instagram
Memphis man sues city, police over photo taken of his deceased mother
Asbury Park High School: History Seminar
New Jersey police reach $4 million settlement with children of woman killed by ex-husband, a former police officer
Druski new parody mocking conservative women sparks debate
Detroit man convicted of sexually assaulting, killing teen found dead in prison 2 weeks after sentencing
Kendrick Johnson’s parents file $10B lawsuit against federal judges
GoFundMe launched after Alabama mother is fatally shot by husband hours after giving birth
Shaquille O’Neal pays for funeral costs for 12‑year‑old Jada West, Georgia officials say
Family demands justice after Baltimore County man dies after being punched by police officer in violent encounter
12‑year‑old Georgia girl dies after fight outside school bus, family says she was bullied
OWN greenlights first-ever ‘Belle Collective’ spinoff Belle Collective: Birmingham
Hazel Scott’s legacy returns to Harlem in free outdoor film screening
Olympic Gymnast Frederick Richard sets world record, raises $50K for Ugandan youth
Renee Ferguson, trailblazing investigative journalist, dies at 75
“AfroPoP Digital Shorts” returns to the land with “Sweet Samara,” climate and abolitionist film
-
Community2 weeks agoShaquille O’Neal pays for funeral costs for 12‑year‑old Jada West, Georgia officials say
-
Education1 week agoAsbury Park High School: Crossover event esports and history with Tina Watson
-
Social Justice2 days agoNew Jersey police reach $4 million settlement with children of woman killed by ex-husband, a former police officer
-
Social Justice4 days agoJury awards California woman $15 million after supervisor called her n-word
-
Culture2 weeks agoWu‑Tang Clan concert film to screen at The Pinhook as part of Wu‑Tang Wednesday Series
-
Social Justice6 days agoFamily pleads for Trump’s help bringing severely ill son home from Chinese prison
-
Crime & Justice3 days agoDetroit man convicted of sexually assaulting, killing teen found dead in prison 2 weeks after sentencing
-
Culture2 days agoDruski new parody mocking conservative women sparks debate
-
Social Justice1 week agoDOJ moves to dismiss criminal case against ex-officers charged for role in Breonna Taylor’s death
-
In Memoriam1 week agoIn Memoriam: Beloved Showtime at the Apollo co-host Kiki Shepard