The freshman linebacker was hospitalized after being shot near Tallahassee on Aug. 31.
TAMPA, Fla. — Four individuals were apprehended in relation to the shooting incident that left Florida State University football player Ethan Pritchard in a critical state.
The arrests were announced by the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office in a Facebook post on Wednesday, 10 days after Pritchard was admitted to the hospital following a shooting near Tallahassee.
Authorities stated that Caron Miller, 18, and Jayden Bodison, 22, are facing several charges, including attempted murder and discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle. A 16-year-old, whose identity has not been revealed by authorities, is also facing these charges.
Germany Atkins, 23, was also arrested on a violation of probation charge, according to the sheriff’s office.
The 6-foot-2, 224-pound freshman linebacker was visiting family on August 31 when he was shot while inside a vehicle outside apartments in Havana, according to the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office. As per the latest reports, Pritchard’s condition remains critical but stable.
“Thoughts and prayers with Ethan Pritchard and his family,” FSU coach Mike Norvell previously stated. “It’s undoubtedly a terribly tragic incident for the young man. I had the opportunity to be with him, his father, and family last night. We are grateful for the medical support he has received. Our football team, coaches, and family have all been there for him.”
He went on, “We’re praying for all parts of him and the journey that’s ahead. Definitely appreciate the support from the community that we feel.”
Miller and Atkins have been detained at the Gadsden County Jail, while Bodison was taken to the Leon County Jail. Additionally, deputies reported that the 16-year-old was taken to the Leon County Juvenile Detention Center.
Playing for Pritchard
The Seminoles were playing with heavy hearts on Saturday, Sept. 6, after freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard was shot on Aug. 31. Florida State players honored him by wearing sweatbands with his No. 35 jersey number, and Little Jr. brought Pritchard’s No. 35 jersey to midfield for the pregame coin toss.
“It’s something that made us go out there and play for him today,” Castellanos said. “His dad was with us on the sideline and in the locker room. We’re praying for Ethan. We wish him a speedy recovery and hopefully God upstairs gives him a second chance at life.”
Anyone with any more information related to the investigation is asked to call 850-627-9233 or call Big Bend Crime Solvers at (850) 574-TIPS or submit a tip online through their P3 Mobile App or website.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
