Auburn University Football player Brian Batty was reportedly among the victims injured in a shooting in Sarasota, Florida, on Saturday morning.
Deputies were dispatched to a report of a shooting around 3:30 a.m. that occurred in Sarasota, according to a news release from the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. One person died of his injuries, while four other victims were transported to local hospitals.
Tommy Batty IV, 24, was pronounced dead at the scene. Auburn jogger Brian Batey, 22, was shot and is in critical condition at a local hospital, the Sarasota Herald Tribute, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported, citing a source familiar with the incident.
An Auburn spokesperson told AL.com on Saturday that the university is aware of the incident and is gathering information. Authorities said the shooting appears to be an isolated incident.
A social media account called “AUFAMILY” shares news and updates to Auburn students, alumni and fans who have posted about the shooting on social media and asks for prayers for Brian Batey and his family.
The GoFundMe is asking for help and support for Patty’s family
Curt Bradley, Tommy Batty’s football coach Braden River High SchoolShe was crushed after learning about the incident.
“No words can provide the necessary comfort, but we are a family that believes in the power of prayer,” Bradley said. “We will pray and believe that Brian makes a full recovery, and that Patty’s family knows that Tommy’s impact will forever be felt in this community.”
After three seasons at South Florida during which Brian Batty rushed for 1,842 yards and 10 touchdowns, he transferred to Auburn for the 2023 season. He rushed 51 times for 227 yards and a score, but it was Batty as a kickoff returner who provided his real value. He returned 29 for 645 yards.
A GoFundMe account has been set up for Patty’s family.
“Please help Patty’s family. It will take a village to help this family as tragedy struck them early Saturday morning with one son dying and fighting for the life of the other,” the post read. “It is inconceivable that they would try to mourn one while trying to stay strong and fight for the other.”
Ayobami Olugbemega, a GoFundMe spokesperson, confirmed that Brian’s brother’s name is Tommy.
“Let’s help take some of the burden off this amazing family who did not deserve this tragedy. Please continue to pray for Brian as he is still fighting for his life.” The GoFundMe post has been added to #21strong.
According to a GoFundMe account, the family has raised $22,337 of their $100,000 goal.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Criminal Investigation Division at 941-861-4900 or Crime Stoppers in Sarasota at 941-366-8477.
Contributing: Doug Fernandez, Sarasota Herald-Tribune.
Ahjané Forbes is a reporter for USA TODAY’s National Trending Team. Ahjané covers breaking news, recalls, crime, health, lottery, and public policy stories. Send her an email at [email protected]. follow her Instagram, Threads And x (Twitter).