Auburn running back Brian Battie appears to be taking small steps toward recovery after a “senseless” shooting in Florida last month.
His family shared a major medical update with friends and fans via a GoFundMe page on Wednesday, following reports that Battie could be left “permanently paralyzed.”
“Brian is currently still in intensive care, but we are fortunate to share that Brian was able to give a thumbs up to his mother with his left hand on Saturday and showed movement in his left leg,” the post began.
‘The right side of his body showed no sign of movement until two days ago. By the grace of God, Brian was able to move his right knee and leg.”
They went on to describe the 22-year-old college football star as a “fighter” amid his “miraculous” recovery from the tragic shooting that left his older brother Tommie dead.
Auburn running back Brian Battie is taking steps toward recovery from a shooting last month
“Brian was able to give a ‘thumbs up’ to his mother with his left hand,” the family revealed
‘Brian had the ventilator removed this morning and required a tracheotomy. “Brian has a long journey ahead of him and the Battie family continues to need everyone’s support and prayers as they continue to mourn the loss of Pooh while praying that Brian’s recovery continues to move in a positive direction,” the statement continued.
“We thank everyone for all the support, generosity and prayers that have blessed the Battie family thus far and we pray that this will help them through this unimaginable tragedy.”
About 1,000 people have donated more than $107,000 to the family through the fundraising page.
According to court documents obtained by the Tampa Bay Times, the college football star can become permanently paralyzed.
A probable cause statement from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office obtained by the Tampa Bay Times, revealed that Brian and Tommie were “walking in the area” when a man named Darryl Brookins pulled a gun and shot at them.
The college football star has been in the hospital since the tragic incident in Sarasota
Darryl Brookins, 28, was arrested and charged with murder in connection with the Florida shooting
The Battie family confirmed the death of 24-year-old Tommie on the GoFundMe page
Authorities accuse Brookins of firing 12 or 13 shots into a parking lot while about 200 people were nearby.
Officials said the shooting appeared to be an isolated incident, although it is still unknown what sparked the violence.
Brookins, 28, was arrested last week and charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of a firearm.
He is said to have killed 24-year-old Tommie and injured several people.
The GoFundMe pageset up for the benefit of the Battie family, sadly confirmed the death of Brian’s brother.
“On May 18, 2024, the Battie family received the most devastating news that Tommie and Brian were the victims of a senseless shooting,” the message began.
“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we share the unexpected passing of Tommie Battie IV (Pooh). Brian Battie remains in critical condition at a local hospital.”
Brian rushed for 1,842 yards and scored 10 touchdowns during three seasons at South Florida.
He transferred to Auburn for the 2023 season and rushed 51 times for 227 yards and a touchdown.