Sep 2, 2023; Auburn, Alabama, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Brian Battie (21) returns the opening kickoff against the Massachusetts Minutemen at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports
Auburn running back Brian Battie on Saturday was reportedly one of several victims of a shooting in Sarasota, Fla.
Battie was one of four people injured in the shooting that occurred around 3:30 a.m. at Tallywood Centre Plaza. Battie’s brother Tommie was pronounced dead at the scene, according to a report from ABC7. Police say Brian sustained a gunshot wound to the head.
Sarasota investigators and deputies had reportedly closed off the shopping center and nearby roads for several hours to gather more evidence. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office has yet to release any possible motives for the shooting.
“We are aware of the situation and are continuing to gather information,” an Auburn spokesperson told AL.com’s Ainslie Lee.
Battie rushed for 227 yards and 1 touchdown on 51 carries for Auburn last season. Battie primarily served as Auburn’s kick returner. He averaged 23.0 yards per kick return, which ranked fifth in the SEC.
Battie had transferred to Auburn in 2023 after three seasons at South Florida. Battie graduated from Sarasota High School before committing to South Florida in 2020.
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