Alabama A&M announces incorrectly reported death of football player

Alabama A&M University recently faced significant backlash after incorrectly announcing the death of linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr. The error not only caused confusion but also raised troubling questions about the reliability of information shared by credible institutions.

On the evening of November 26, 2024, the university’s athletic department sent out a statement announcing the death of Burnett, who had been hospitalized following a serious head injury sustained in a game against Alabama State approximately a month earlier was. The press release described Burnett’s character and contributions: “Medrick was more than an exceptional athlete; “He was a remarkable young man whose positive energy, leadership and compassion left an indelible impression on everyone who knew him.” The heartfelt tribute was deeply moving for many, but quickly turned from dark to shocking.

A few hours later, the athletic department retracted the alarming announcement, clarifying via social media and updated statements: “We are retracting the news of the death of Medrick Burnett Jr. Our staff acted in accordance with the family member’s wishes to inform the A&M community and beyond this unfortunate event.
We are relieved to report that Medrick is alive and currently stable at UAB Hospital.” This sudden about-face surprised many media outlets, especially since many had widely shared the original statement before the correction.

The reason for the confusion was information from a member of Burnett’s family who, perhaps out of distress, gave premature news to university officials without confirming details of his condition. Consequently, the University’s decision to immediately disseminate this information reflected issues related to verification and sensitivity related to serious health issues.

Burnett Jr., affectionately known as “Meddy” by friends and teammates, was hospitalized for bleeding on the brain and significant swelling following the injury. His condition has been precarious since his injury during the game on October 26th. The incident, detailed by medics, involved a head-on collision with another player, which led to his current health crisis, as almost a month has passed since he was admitted to hospital. At just 20 years old, he faces challenges that are unprecedented for someone so young.

His sister, Dominece James, took the initiative and set up a GoFundMe page aimed at helping family members visiting him during recovery with medical expenses and travel logistics. The page has garnered significant support in the community, showing how much care and concern there is for Burnett, not just as an athlete, but as a person.

While Alabama A&M University expressed its sincere regret over the misinformation, the incident highlights the responsibility that athletic departments and media outlets alike bear when dealing with potentially life-changing situations. A precedent has been set reminding institutions to be cautious about sensitive information about health and well-being, especially after loss or serious injury.

The widespread reaction on social media also highlighted the rapid spread and potential for misunderstanding of information shared online. The next morning, queries about Burnett yielded conflicting results, some of which mirrored the obituary before any record of its retraction emerged. This fragmentation of information highlights the urgent need for clear communication protocols when serious health issues arise.

For many, the care of teammates, family and the wider community reflects the solidarity that is often found in sport – particularly in difficult times. Leaders and teammates of the Alabama A&M athletic program ask the community to continue to keep Burnett and his family in their thoughts as they navigate this difficult chapter.

Burnett’s well-being remains a top priority during his treatment, and as the story continues to develop, many will be paying close attention to any updates from his family or the university. This incident serves as a reminder not only of the fragility of life, but also of the importance of accuracy when delivering sensitive messages to families and communities.

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Alabama A&M announces incorrectly reported death of football player

ByAmelia Journalton

By Amelia Journalton

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