Auburn RB's mother says he's no longer in ICU after shooting

Lina Portman3 weeks ago

0 2 minutes read

Auburn football running back Brian Battie is out of intensive care weeks after suffering a gunshot wound to the head in the Sarasota, Fla., shooting that injured five people and killed his brother, Tommie Battie IV.

Battie's mother, Adriene, provided an update on Brian's health Friday evening via the family GoFundMe, which has raised more than $109,000 since the shooting.

“Brian is officially out of the intensive care unit and on to the next level of trauma care,” Adriene wrote. “He has made great progress this week and is communicating more. He smiles, laughs and says words. His two favorite words right now are Brother and Tommie. He was able to write his name yesterday.

“We ask all of our prayer warriors to continue to pray for Brian's recovery and complete healing, from the top of his head to the soles of his feet! He still has a long road to recovery, we are exploring all our options for the best rehabilitation care to address his traumatic brain injury. We ask God to direct our steps as we advocate and seek the best for our son.

The shooting happened around 3:30 a.m. ET on May 18. Darryl Bernard Brookins Jr. was arrested four days later and charged with murder, attempted murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Brookins' girlfriend, Nicole Roberts, was arrested May 31 for allegedly helping Brookins get rid of the gun.

“Finding strength in heartbreak while keeping faith in the midst of adversity has been a journey like no other,” Adriene said. “Losing one son has tested our spirits, leaving our hearts broken, but seeing our other son come out of the intensive care unit and progressing fills us with hope and gratitude. It reminds us that even in our darkest times, there is still light We hold on to faith, cherish every little victory and continue to trust the healing process.

According to a probable cause affidavit related to Brookins' arrest, video footage from surrounding businesses shows Brookins leaning on the window of a nearby business before the shooting began. The affidavit also states that Brian and Tommie Battie were “walking toward Brookins.” At that point, Brookins “immediately drew a gun and began shooting” at the brothers. Brian and Tommie fought back, the affidavit states.

Lina Portman

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