Florida State University linebacker Ethan Pritchard is in critical but stable condition after being shot Sunday night near Tallahassee, in what authorities believe was a case of mistaken identity.

The 18-year-old freshman, who was recently on the sideline during FSU’s major victory over Alabama, was visiting a family friend in Havana, Florida, when the incident occurred around 10 p.m., according to the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office.

Found Shot and Rushed to ICU

Deputies responded to reports of a shooting near Havana Heights Apartments, where they found Pritchard injured inside a vehicle.

“Officers did arrive [and] were able to get him out of the vehicle, and EMS arrived where they transported him to a local hospital,” said Captain Anglie Holmes, public information officer for the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office.

Pritchard was immediately placed in the intensive care unit upon arrival at the hospital.

FSU Confirms: “Critical but Stable”

On Monday, FSU Football released an official statement through team spokesperson Steven McCartney:

“Ethan Pritchard, a freshman linebacker on Florida State’s football team, is in critical but stable condition in the intensive care unit at a local hospital after suffering a gunshot wound last night while visiting family in Havana, Florida.”

The statement added that the Pritchard family is grateful for the outpouring of support and the care provided by first responders and hospital staff. They are requesting privacy during this difficult time, and further updates will be shared when available.

A Tragic Turn After Big Win

The shooting occurred less than 24 hours after the Seminoles’ stunning 31-17 win over the Alabama Crimson Tide. Pritchard, although not playing in the game, was in uniform on the sideline, supporting his teammates during the upset victory.

Coach Norvell: “A Lot of Emotions”

FSU Head Coach Mike Norvell visited Pritchard and his family at the hospital on Sunday night and addressed the situation during a press conference on Monday.

“Our football team, coaches, family — we’re all here to support them,” Norvell said. “They love this family that we get to be a part of, and there’s a lot of emotions, and I’ve got a lot of emotions.”