HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – An Alabama A&M linebacker who was carted off the field during the Magic City Classic in October remains in the hospital, his family says.
Medrick Burnett Jr., a redshirt freshman from California, was injured during a head-on collision during the game, according to a GoFundMe that his sister Dominece James organized for him.
“He had several brain bleeds and swelling of the brain. He had to have a tube to drain to relieve the pressure, and after 2 days of severe pressure, we had to opt for a craniotomy, which was the last resort to help try to save his life,” according to an update posted on GoFundMe.
Burnett played in seven games this season. He transferred to Alabama A&M from Grambling State.
The GoFundMe set up for Burnett reported that he turned 20 years old in October. More than $26,000 has been raised for his family.
On Wednesday morning Alabama A&M University officials released a statement reporting that Burnett Jr. had died. The statement has since been retracted.
After speaking with Burnett Jr.‘s family it was confirmed that he remains in the hospital in Birmingham.
“When the time comes, we will issue a statement about what we have been through.” Burnett Jr’s mother, Denise Burnett said.
Alabama A&M University Athletics released a new statement apologizing for “disseminating false information.”
We retract the news of the passing of Medrick Burnett Jr., that was originally advised by an immediate family member on Tuesday evening. Our staff acted accordingly to the wishes of the family member to inform the A&M community and beyond of this unfortunate occurrence. Upon hearing from a representative from UAB hospital this afternoon, we learned that he remains alive. We express our immediate regret for disseminating false information however, we hold complete joy in knowing that Medrick remains in stable condition.
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