Auburn University running back Brian Battie, who was a key player for the Tigers during the 2023 season, is in critical condition after a fatal shooting that occurred on Saturday morning in Sarasota, Florida. His brother, Tommie Battie, was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident resulted in four other individuals being sent to the hospital, including Battie.
The news of Battie’s condition was confirmed by 247Sports. Coach Hugh Freeze of the Tigers provided an update on Battie’s condition, stating that there had been a setback the previous night and he remains on a ventilator. Auburn University is currently gathering more information about the situation and is aware of it.
Brian Battie was a highly-rated prospect in 247Sports’ 2023 transfer rankings and initially signed with South Florida in 2020 after attending Sarasota High School. He spent three years at South Florida before joining Auburn, where he served as the main kick returner and provided depth at the running back position. Battie showed impressive skills with an average of 23 yards per kick return and almost 50 yards per game. With 227 rushing yards for the season, he scored a touchdown in a game against Arkansas on November 11th.
