Florida State football player shot while visiting family
- Ethan Pritchard was hospitalized in critical but stable condition after being shot on September 1, 2025.
- The incident occurred while he was visiting family in Havana, Florida, following a football victory over Alabama.
- Authorities are investigating the shooting and have requested information from the public.
On September 1, 2025, Ethan Pritchard, a freshman linebacker for Florida State University, was shot in Havana, Florida, while visiting relatives. He was found injured in a vehicle outside the Havana Heights Apartments shortly before 10 p.m. local time. Emergency responders quickly took him to a local hospital, where he was admitted to the intensive care unit in critical but stable condition. This incident occurred just a day after Pritchard's team celebrated a surprising victory over the University of Alabama, marking a significant achievement for the Seminoles as it was Alabama's first non-conference regular-season road loss in 20 years. The Gadsden County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation into the shooting, with details still emerging regarding the circumstances surrounding the event. Florida State University released a statement expressing their gratitude for the support received by the Pritchard family and requested privacy during this challenging time. FSU head coach Mike Norvell described the situation as tragic and acknowledged the medical assistance that Pritchard has received. As inquiries into the shooting continue, Florida Department of Law Enforcement is also involved, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward. As the investigation unfolds, the impact on the Florida State football community is felt strongly, with many rallying around Pritchard and his family during this difficult time.