HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (WAFF) – An Alabama A&M linebacker who was carted off the field during the Magic City Classic in October remains in the hospital, his family says.

Medrick Burnett Jr., a freshman from California, was injured in a head-on collision during the game, according to a GoFundMe his sister Dominece James organized for him.

“He had several brain hemorrhages and swelling of the brain. He had to have a tube drained to relieve the pressure, and after two days of intense pressure, we had to opt for a craniotomy, which was the last resort to save his life,” according to an update on GoFundMe. .

Burnett has played in seven games this season. He transferred from Grambling State to Alabama A&M.

The GoFundMe set up for Burnett reported that he turned 20 in October. More than $26,000 has been raised for his family.

On Wednesday morning, Alabama A&M University officials released a statement saying Burnett Jr. had died. The statement has now been withdrawn.

After speaking with Burnett Jr.’s family. it was confirmed that he remains in hospital in Birmingham.

“When the time comes, we will make a statement about what we experienced.” Burnett Jr.’s mother, Denise Burnett said.

Alabama A&M University Athletics has released a new statement apologizing for “spreading false information.”

We are retracting the news of Medrick Burnett Jr.’s death, which was originally reported Tuesday evening by an immediate family member. Our staff acted in accordance with the family member’s wishes to inform the A&M community and beyond of this unfortunate event. When we heard from a UAB Hospital representative this afternoon, we learned that he is still alive. We express our immediate regret for spreading false information, but are completely happy to know that Medrick remains in stable condition.

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