Ethan Pritchard
Florida State linebacker Ethan Pritchard has been released from the hospital, about six weeks after he was shot in the back of the head in late August.
The freshman had been receiving care at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital and will now begin the next stage of his recovery at Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, according to a statement from the university on Thursday.
“Ethan is alert, responsive, and able to communicate,” the statement read. “We are deeply thankful for the thoughts, prayers, and support from so many people, and we ask that everyone continue to stand with Ethan and his family as his recovery continues.”
Social media videos captured an emotional scene as Pritchard’s teammates and coaches lined the hospital hallway, cheering and applauding when he was wheeled out — a moment that highlighted just how close-knit the Seminoles community has become.
Pritchard’s father, Earl Pritchard, shared his gratitude for the support they’ve received, especially from head coach Mike Norvell and the medical staff who helped his son pull through.
“Coach Norvell has checked in every single day and has been by our side throughout this ordeal,” he said. “The love and encouragement from everyone have meant more to us than we can ever express.”
Authorities said the shooting happened on August 31 while Pritchard was sitting in a vehicle outside an apartment complex in Havana, Florida. According to Gadsden County Sheriff Morris Young, the incident appears to have been a case of mistaken identity. Four suspects have since been arrested.
Although Pritchard still faces a long recovery, his family says he’s determined to keep pushing forward. “Ethan is a fighter,” his father said. “With his strength — and the support of the entire Seminole family — we know he’s going to come back stronger than ever.”