Medrick Burnett Jr., a 20-year-old linebacker for Alabama A&M University, has passed away after sustaining a head injury during a football game in October. The injury occurred during the annual Magic City Classic in Birmingham on October 26, where Alabama A&M faced off against in-state rivals Alabama State University.
The Jefferson County coroner confirmed Burnett's official time of death as late Wednesday afternoon, following weeks of hospitalization at UAB Hospital. Burnett, who was in his first season with Alabama A&M, had been battling the effects of the injury since the game.
Alabama A&M's Initial Announcement and Retraction
Alabama A&M’s athletic department initially announced Burnett’s death on Wednesday morning, but later issued a retraction. The school explained that the first report of his passing came from an immediate family member on Tuesday evening. After further communication with the hospital, it was confirmed that Burnett was still alive, prompting the retraction.
The second statement from the university expressed regret for disseminating false information, adding, “We express our immediate regret for disseminating false information, however, we hold complete joy in knowing that Medrick remains in stable condition.” Unfortunately, Burnett’s condition worsened, and he passed away two days later.
Background and Career at Alabama A&M
Burnett, a redshirt freshman from Lakewood, California, joined Alabama A&M’s football team over the summer after transferring from Grambling State University in Louisiana. Before the injury, he had played in seven games and made five tackles, including three tackles against Austin Peay.
Following Burnett’s injury, the community rallied in support, and a GoFundMe page raised over $48,000 as of Friday. His death has deeply affected the Alabama A&M community and the college football world, with many expressing their condolences and sharing memories of Burnett’s time on the field.
Details of the Incident
Burnett's tragic injury occurred during a highly anticipated matchup in the Magic City Classic, one of the most significant games of the season for both teams. The linebacker was a key part of the Alabama A&M defense and had shown promise in his debut season. His death brings an unfortunate end to a promising young athlete’s career and life.
At this time, the exact cause of Burnett’s death has not been disclosed. The coroner’s office has not released further details, but the community continues to mourn the loss of a young athlete who was just beginning his journey in college football.
Never ending void
The loss of Medrick Burnett Jr. has left a deep void in the Alabama A&M University family, with friends, teammates, and supporters honoring his memory. The university’s athletic department, the family, and fellow athletes continue to receive an outpouring of support during this difficult time.
