Alabama A&M Athlete Succumbs to Injuries Sustained in Game Last Month
Alabama A&M University football player Medrick “Meddy” Burnett Jr., 20, tragically passed away this week due to severe head injuries sustained during a game against Alabama State last month.
Burnett, a redshirt freshman linebacker from Lakewood, California, was involved in a head-on tackle during the annual Magic City Classic on Oct. 26, resulting in multiple brain bleeds and swelling.
After weeks of intensive medical care, including a craniotomy to relieve pressure on his brain, Burnett succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday evening.
The university initially announced Burnett’s death on Wednesday morning, but retracted the statement later in the day after misinformation from UAB Hospital. Unfortunately, Burnett passed away despite the retraction.
Burnett’s family, who have been supporting him throughout his hospitalization, are updating supporters through a GoFundMe campaign to cover medical and travel expenses.
His sister, Dominece, stated on GoFundMe that he requires extensive care, and the family needs support, prayers, and resources to help him in his fight to survive.
Burnett joined Alabama A&M’s football team this summer after transferring from Grambling State University. He played seven games this season, recording five tackles, and wore jersey number 51.
The Mayfair High School football team also confirmed Burnett’s passing and asked the community to keep his family in their thoughts and prayers.
Efforts to reach the university and Medical Examiner’s Office for comment on the situation were unsuccessful.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
