Introduction
In early September 2025, the college football world was rocked by troubling news—Florida State University (FSU) freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard was shot while visiting family. An intense wave of concern and media attention followed, leaving fans and analysts alike searching for verified updates. This article dives deep into the facts, exploring each aspect of the situation with clarity and compassion.
What Happened? The FSU Shooting Incident
Timing and Location
On Sunday evening, August 31, 2025, Ethan Pritchard was shot while visiting family in Havana, Florida—just outside Tallahassee. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. near Havana Heights Apartments, located at 16th Street and South Main Street.
Official Confirmation
Florida State Athletics confirmed the incident on Monday morning, stating that Pritchard is in critical but stable condition, currently being treated in an intensive care unit at a Tallahassee-area hospital. The school emphasized gratitude for widespread support and asked for privacy as the situation remains in flux.
How the Reports Unfolded—On3, 247, and Beyond
On3 / Warchant
On3 (via Warchant) was among the first outlets to report that Pritchard, a Florida State linebacker, was hospitalized after a shooting in Havana. Their updates detailed that he was shot inside a vehicle, transported to hospital, underwent surgery, and remains under observation. Sources warned the shooting may have been a random act of violence.On3
247Sports / Noles247
247Sports, using Noles247, also broke the news. They reported that Pritchard was shot in Havana while driving a family member home—his vehicle was targeted by someone who may have misidentified it. Emergency responders arrived on scene and transported Pritchard to a local hospital.
Other Outlets & Local Coverage
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AP News offered confirmation of the incident and Pritchard’s current condition, highlighting that he did not play in FSU’s season-opening victory over Alabama.
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WCTV (local TV news) provided on-the-ground context, quoting law enforcement and repeating the statement issued by FSU Athletics.
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SI.com, Saturday Down South, and OutKick echoed these reports, adding background on Pritchard’s recruiting status, early career, and context around the accident.
Social Media and Community Reactions
On platforms like Reddit, fans and followers expressed shock, empathy, and support:
“Hope he pulls through.”
“Prayers.”
Social media speculation, including rumors about the nature of the wounds or potential fatalities, were addressed by family members and media outlets to combat misinformation.
Who Is Ethan Pritchard? Context and Career
Recruiting and High School Achievements
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247Sports Profile: Pritchard is listed at 6’2″, 224 lbs; a 4-star linebacker from Seminole High School, Sanford, Florida, and committed to FSU in October 2023 (signed December 2024).
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He ranked among top linebackers in his class, both statewide and nationally. His junior year featured standout stats: 75 tackles, 11 for loss, 4 pass breakups, and a fumble recovery—helping Seminole HS reach regional finals.
Role at FSU
Pritchard enrolled early in January 2025. During preseason and spring training, he impressed defensive coordinator Tony White, who praised his athletic ability and future promise.
He did not appear in FSU’s season opener—a major upset win over No. 8 Alabama on August 30, 2025.
Recruiting Class Impact
As part of FSU’s 2025 signing class, Pritchard bolstered a defense-heavy rebuild. The class featured several four-star recruits, signaling a key recruiting turnaround for the program.
Investigations and Response
Law Enforcement Involvement
The Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office, Havana Police Department, and Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) are collaborating on the investigation. FDLE is leading the case, seeking witnesses or leads. Officials emphasized the public’s help if they “saw something.”
Captain Anglie Holmes confirmed Pritchard was found wounded inside his vehicle, with EMS transporting him afterward.
FSU Officials’ Comments
FSU’s public relations team released a statement requesting privacy and acknowledged the support shown to the Pritchard family during this difficult time.
There’s no suggestion yet that any charges have been made, and the investigation remains ongoing.
Broader Impact on FSU Football and Community
Team Morale and Schedule
Coming on the heels of a massive upset victory over Alabama, the shooting casts a somber tone over the team’s inspired start. Pritchard’s absence leaves a defensive spot open; his status is uncertain as the season progresses.
FSU will likely address the situation in upcoming press conferences as the investigation and his recovery evolve.
Fan Reactions and Media Landscape
Fans across social platforms have overwhelmingly offered prayers and well-wishes. Rumors about his status circulated quickly, prompting fact-checking from family and reputable media.
Media outlets are also emphasizing due diligence—citing law enforcement and institutional statements over hearsay.
Summation and Next Steps
The shooting of Ethan Pritchard is both an alarming and emotional event. On3 and 247 consistently delivered early, accurate reporting, while outlets like AP, WCTV, SI, Saturday Down South, and OutKick expanded coverage with verified updates.
What to Monitor Next:
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Official updates on Pritchard’s recovery and status
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Findings from FDLE and law enforcement investigation
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FSU’s handling of the incident in team communications
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Community and fan responses (fundraising, support)
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Potential defensive lineup changes or tributes in upcoming games
Conclusion
Ethan Pritchard’s injury is a sobering reminder of the fragility behind athletic headlines. While his future at Florida State remains unwritten, the outpouring of support from teammates, fans, and coaches offers a beacon of hope. Continuous, factual reporting—especially from trusted platforms like On3 and 247—will be critical as this story unfolds. We join the broader Semedoles community in hoping for his full recovery and a strong return to health both on and off the field.
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