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FSU freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard is in intensive care after shooting, school says

Florida State players run onto the field before the start of an NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, in Tallahassee. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)
Phelan M. Ebenhack/AP
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FR121174 AP
Florida State players run onto the field before the start of an NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, in Tallahassee. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Florida State says freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard is in critical but stable condition after being shot while visiting family.

A Florida State linebacker is in critical but stable condition after being shot while visiting family, the Seminoles said Monday.

Ethan Pritchard, a 6-foot-2, 224-pound freshman from Sanford, was in intensive care at a Tallahassee-area hospital. He was shot Sunday evening while inside a vehicle outside apartments in Havana, according to the Gadsden County Sheriff's Office.

“The Pritchard family is thankful for the support from so many people, as well as the care from first responders and medical professionals, and asks that their privacy be respected at this time,” FSU said in a statement. “Further updates will be provided as they are available.”

Pritchard did not play in Florida State's season opener, a 31-17 victory Saturday over No. 8 Alabama in Tallahassee.

“Thoughts and prayers with Ethan Pritchard and his family," FSU coach Mike Norvell said Monday. "Obviously an extremely tragic event for the young man. I got a chance to be there last night with him, his dad and family. Grateful for all of the medical support that he was able to receive. Our football team, coaches, family were all there to support him.

“We’re praying for all parts of him and the journey that’s ahead. Definitely appreciate the support from the community that we feel.”

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