Officials from Alabama A&M University confirmed the passing of football player Medrick Barnett Jr. in a statement issued on Wednesday, although this announcement was later taken down from the school’s website. Nevertheless, Barnett Jr.’s family informed NBC News affiliate WFAF that he is still currently hospitalized.
The 20-year-old athlete sustained a head injury during a game four weeks earlier, according to the university’s officials.
“When the appropriate moment arrives, we will provide a statement regarding our experience,” stated Barnett Jr.’s mother, Denise Barnett, in an interview with the station.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Alabama A&M’s administration had not responded to inquiries following the removal of the announcement about Barnett’s passing.
NBC News was unable to reach Barnett’s family for further comments.
The redshirt freshman linebacker was actively participating on October 26 when the Bulldogs competed against their rivals, Alabama State, in the annual Magic City Classic, an event showcasing the state’s prominent Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
Barnett participated in seven games this season after making a transfer from Grambling State to Alabama A&M. His standout performance occurred on September 21, where he recorded three tackles against Austin Peay.
“The Bulldog community is deeply saddened by the loss of Medrick Barnett Jr.,” expressed Paul Bryant, the athletics director at Alabama A&M, in a statement that has since been removed.
“Medrick was not only a remarkable athlete but also a wonderful young man whose positive outlook, leadership qualities, and kindness made a lasting impact on everyone around him. It is impossible to convey the sadness of this situation, and I admire the strength of his family who has supported him through this incredibly difficult time,” he added.
Barnett was a graduate of Mayfair High School in Lakewood, California, a suburb located near Los Angeles.
“We send our heartfelt condolences to his family and teammates during this very trying period,” stated Mayfair High School in an official announcement.
Currently, Alabama A&M holds a record of 6-5 overall and 4-3 within the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), with one last game scheduled against Florida A&M in Tallahassee on Friday afternoon.
This is a developing story. Please return for the latest updates.
