Auburn Tigers football coach Hugh Freeze took to social media to request prayers for running back Brian Battie, who had been shot and injured in a tragic incident in Florida. Battie’s brother, Tony Battie IV, was tragically killed, and several others were wounded in the shooting in Sarasota. Freeze asked for prayers as Battie was still on a ventilator and in critical condition. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office was investigating the incident, which occurred around 3:30 a.m. ET, with multiple shooting victims in the parking lot. Four other victims were also taken to hospitals in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. The shooting was deemed to be an isolated incident, and the cause of the violence was not disclosed.
Brian Battie had begun his collegiate career at South Florida in 2020, where he quickly rose to starting status by the 2022 season. He had an impressive year, rushing for 1,185 yards and eight touchdowns, earning him an All-American title as a return specialist in 2021. Following his successful stint at South Florida, Battie transferred to Auburn for the 2022 season. During his time with the Tigers, he ran for 227 yards and scored one touchdown. The news of the shooting shook the Auburn community and Freeze’s call for prayers indicated the seriousness of Battie’s condition as he fought for his life on a ventilator.
The Auburn family rallied behind Battie and his family during this difficult time, offering support and prayers for his recovery. Freeze’s plea for prayers garnered responses from fans and supporters across social media, showing the widespread concern for Battie’s well-being following the tragic shooting incident that resulted in his brother’s death. The football community mourned the loss of Tony Battie IV and hoped for Brian’s full recovery as he fought for his life in the hospital. The exact circumstances of the shooting were still under investigation by local authorities, who were working to determine the cause of the violence that led to multiple injuries and one fatality.
As the investigation into the shooting continued, the focus remained on Brian Battie’s recovery and well-being as he remained in critical condition on a ventilator. The outpouring of support from the Auburn community and beyond highlighted the impact Battie had made on those around him both on and off the football field. His accomplishments as a player at South Florida and Auburn were celebrated, with hopes for a full recovery and return to the game. The incident served as a reminder of the dangers faced by many young athletes, even off the field, and the importance of community support during times of crisis. Freeze’s call for prayers exemplified the solidarity and strength of the Auburn family in supporting one of their own during a time of tragedy and uncertainty.
