In a turn of events, Alabama A&M redshirt freshman linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr. remains alive in the hospital after initial reports mistakenly announced his death. Burnett sustained a severe head injury during a game against Alabama State on Oct. 29, resulting in significant brain trauma that led to multiple surgeries and extended hospitalization.
On November 27, the Alabama A&M athletic department issued a statement expressing their heartbreak over Burnett’s supposed loss, which was reported based on information relayed by an immediate family member.
“Today, our Bulldog family is heartbroken by the loss of Medrick Burnett Jr.,” Alabama A&M athletic director Dr. Paul A. Bryant said in a statement on Wednesday. “Medrick was more than an exceptional athlete; he was a remarkable young man whose positive energy, leadership, and compassion left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. “While words cannot adequately express our grief, we are humbled by the strength of his family, who stood by his side throughout this unimaginable ordeal.”
Retracting the Story
However, later that same day, a follow-up announcement revealed that Medrick was, in fact, still alive. The news was quickly corrected when Medrick’s mother and a representative from UAB Hospital confirmed that he was still fighting for his life. The athletic department expressed deep regret for the confusion while also finding solace in the fact that Burnett is still with us.
Prayers for Burnett
In a heartfelt message shared via a GoFundMe campaign established to assist with medical expenses, Medrick’s sister, Dominece, called for prayers and support from the community. “He is having a tough time, but we are holding on til the very end,” she wrote. “God give us strength so we can keep the faith.”
Medrick Burnett Jr., hailing from Lakewood, California, started his college football career at Grambling State before transferring to Alabama A&M this year. He made a notable impact on the field, participating in seven games and recording five tackles.