Alabama A&M University is mourning the loss of linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr., who passed away Wednesday evening from a head injury sustained during the annual Magic City Classic. Burnett, just 20 years old, suffered the injury on October 26 during the game against Alabama State University.
The Jefferson County coroner confirmed Burnett’s death Friday, listing the official time of death as Wednesday evening. His passing comes weeks after the redshirt freshman had been hospitalized following the on-field incident.
The announcement of Burnett’s death followed a day of confusion. Alabama A&M initially reported his death on Wednesday morning, attributing the information to an immediate family member. However, the university later retracted the statement, clarifying that the earlier information was premature.
By Friday, the coroner’s office confirmed the tragic news.
A native of Lakewood, California, Burnett joined Alabama A&M’s football program this summer after beginning his collegiate career at Grambling State University. As a redshirt freshman, he was eager to make his mark on the field and was known for his dedication and hard work.
The Magic City Classic, one of the most celebrated events in HBCU football, became the site of Burnett’s critical injury, which ultimately led to his passing.
Burnett’s death has sent shockwaves through the Alabama A&M community and the broader HBCU sports world. Friends, teammates, and fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the promising young athlete.
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