Why was FSU linebacker Ethan Pritchard shot? New update reveals his remarkable recovery after six weeks in hospital
Why was FSU linebacker Ethan Pritchard shot?
Florida State University (FSU) freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard has taken a major step forward in his recovery nearly six weeks after being shot in the back of the head in a shocking case of mistaken identity. On Thursday, the university announced that Pritchard has been released from Tallahassee Memorial Hospital and transferred to Brooks Rehabilitation Center in Jacksonville, Florida, where he will continue his recovery journey.
The university’s statement confirmed that the young athlete is alert, responsive, and able to communicate — a remarkable milestone considering the gravity of his injuries. “We are thankful for the efforts, thoughts, and prayers of so many people and ask that you continue to support Ethan and his family as this process continues,” FSU said in a release.
As Pritchard was wheeled out of the hospital, his teammates gathered to send him off with overwhelming cheers and encouragement. In a video shared on Instagram by quarterback Tommy Castellanos, the Seminoles football team erupted in applause, chanting his nickname, “Love E,” as he was placed into the transportation vehicle. The brief clip captured a touching moment — Pritchard, visibly moved, managed a faint smile as he waved to his teammates.
Pritchard’s recovery has been nothing short of inspiring. The 18-year-old linebacker was shot on August 31 while driving his aunt and a three-year-old child home from a family gathering in Havana, Florida, a small community near the Georgia state line. According to investigators, the shooting was a tragic case of mistaken identity. The suspects, believing Pritchard’s car resembled another vehicle they were targeting, opened fire.
Four individuals have since been arrested in connection with the shooting, and authorities have described the case as “senseless violence that could have easily taken more lives.”
Earl Pritchard, Ethan’s father, expressed deep gratitude for his son’s survival and the overwhelming support their family has received. “There have been a lot of ups and downs over these last 39 days, and it is remarkable that Ethan and I were able to leave the hospital together today,” he said. He went on to thank the doctors, nurses, and specialists at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital for their unwavering dedication, particularly Dr. Albert Lee and the ECMO team who played critical roles in Ethan’s treatment.
Earl also praised FSU head coach Mike Norvell, who visited and checked on the family daily. “Coach Norvell has been a constant presence visiting us here at the hospital, and his players and staff have continued to make us feel part of the team,” he said. “I can’t fully express how much those moments have meant to me and Ethan.”
The Pritchard family also extended appreciation to the FSU Sports Medicine staff, Seminole High School in Sanford, Florida — where Ethan played high school football — and local authorities, including Gadsden County Sheriff Morris Young and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, for their commitment to justice.
Ethan’s road to recovery remains long, but his determination has inspired not just his team but an entire community. “Ethan has a long journey ahead of him,” his father said, “but I know he will continue to fight, and he will do so with the full support of our FSU and Seminole County families.”
Before the shooting, Ethan Pritchard was one of Florida State’s most promising recruits. A four-star linebacker from Seminole High, he was ranked No. 54 nationally at his position and No. 66 overall in the 2024 class, according to 247Sports Composite rankings. Coach Norvell had recruited him since his freshman year, recognizing his natural leadership and defensive prowess early on.
For now, the focus remains on recovery. As Pritchard settles into Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, his family, teammates, and fans continue to rally around him — proof that his fighting spirit, both on and off the field, remains unbroken.
FAQs
Who is Ethan Pritchard?
Ethan Pritchard is a freshman linebacker at Florida State University and a former four-star recruit from Seminole High School in Sanford, Florida.
Why was Ethan Pritchard shot?
Authorities say Pritchard was the victim of mistaken identity. The shooters targeted his vehicle, believing it was another car.
Where did the shooting happen?
The incident occurred on August 31 in Havana, Florida, near the Georgia state line.
What is Ethan Pritchard’s current condition?
According to FSU, he is alert, responsive, and able to communicate. He is now receiving rehabilitation care in Jacksonville.
Who was arrested in connection with the shooting?
Four suspects have been arrested by the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
