Florida State Player 'Critical but Stable' After Being Shot Following Team's Victory Over Alabama

Florida State freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard is fighting for his life after being shot Sunday night in Havana, Florida, just outside Tallahassee. The university confirmed Monday that the 18-year-old remains in critical but stable condition at a local hospital.

The Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office said Pritchard was inside a vehicle near an apartment complex when shots were fired. No arrests have been announced, and the investigation is ongoing, according to ESPN.

Florida State head coach Mike Norvell spoke about the tragedy during his weekly press conference.

“It’s obviously an extremely tragic event for the young man,” Norvell said Monday. “Grateful for all the medical support he was able to receive. Our football team, coaches, family are all here to support them. We’re praying for all parts of him and the journey that’s ahead. Definitely appreciate the support from everybody in the community that we feel.”

The university released its own statement, clarifying that Pritchard had been visiting family when the shooting occurred.

“The Pritchard family is thankful for the support from so many people, as well as the care from first responders and medical professionals, and asks that their privacy be respected at this time,” the school said.

Florida State also posted a message on its official football X account, echoing the same statement and assuring fans that updates will be provided as they become available.

Pritchard, a Sanford, Florida, native, enrolled at FSU in January. He did not appear in the Seminoles’ season-opening victory against Alabama this past Saturday. That win — a commanding 31-17 upset over the Crimson Tide — marked a powerful start to FSU’s season following last year’s controversy, when the undefeated Seminoles were denied a College Football Playoff berth despite capturing the ACC title.

For now, the focus is on Pritchard’s recovery. His family, teammates, and community are rallying around him in prayer, hoping the young linebacker pulls through.