September 12, 2025

Four Arrested in Shooting Incident Involving FSU Football Player

News Summary

Four individuals were arrested in connection with the shooting of FSU football linebacker Ethan Pritchard, who is currently in critical condition. The Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office reported that the suspects face multiple charges, including attempted murder. This incident is believed to involve mistaken identity, prompting an active investigation. The FSU community has shown immense support for Pritchard, with fundraising efforts underway to assist his family during this challenging time. As the investigation continues, discussions about gun violence in the community have increased.

Havana, Florida – Four Arrests Made in Connection to Shooting of FSU Football Player Ethan Pritchard

The Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that four arrests have been made related to the shooting of Florida State University football linebacker Ethan Pritchard, who was critically injured on August 31, 2025. Pritchard was shot in the head while transporting his aunt home after a family gathering in Havana. As of September 10, 2025, he remains in critical but stable condition at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital following surgery.

The arrests, categorized as “major,” took place on September 10, 2025, when law enforcement apprehended Caron Miller (18), Germany Atkins (23), and Jayden Bodison (22), along with a 16-year-old juvenile, all from the Havana area. While the specific details regarding charges were initially withheld, it has been disclosed that Miller, Bodison, and the juvenile each face three counts of attempted murder and one count of shooting into an occupied vehicle. Atkins has been charged with violating probation. Miller, Bodison, and Atkins are being held without bond, while the juvenile is in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice.

This shooting incident is believed to have been a case of mistaken identity. Reports from Pritchard’s family indicate that he was ambushed while driving; the shooting occurred with several relatives in the vehicle. The details surrounding the case continue to unfold as the investigation by the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and local law enforcement agencies remains active.

Community Response and Support for Pritchard

The FSU football community has come together to show their support for Pritchard during this challenging time. At the game held on September 6, 2025, the team wore wristbands featuring his number 35 and displayed unity in the face of adversity, as Pritchard’s father was present on the sidelines to honor his son. Safety Earl Little Jr. expressed his support by wearing tape on his nose bearing Pritchard’s name and bringing his jersey to the midfield coin toss.

Head coach Mike Norvell conveyed the emotional impact of Pritchard’s absence, emphasizing the profound sadness generated by the “senseless act” of violence. The team’s solidarity exemplifies the supportive culture of the FSU community, providing a source of strength for Pritchard’s family during a distressing period.

Fundraising Efforts

In a show of community spirit, a GoFundMe page was established to assist Pritchard and his family during his recovery. As of September 10, 2025, the page has raised nearly $130,000, reflecting widespread support and concern for the young athlete and his loved ones.

Investigation Ongoing

The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with key law enforcement figures, including Gadsden County Sheriff Morris Young, confirming the collaborative efforts between the sheriff’s office and other agencies. A press conference was scheduled for later in the day at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Headquarters, where additional information regarding the incident and the arrests will likely be disclosed.

This tragic event has sparked conversations about gun violence and community safety, while the local community continues to rally around Pritchard, his family, and the FSU football team in the wake of this alarming incident.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE TALLAHASSEE WRITER

The TALLAHASSEE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETallahassee.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tallahassee, Leon County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Springtime Tallahassee, Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival, and LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Big Bend, plus leading businesses in education, healthcare, and insurance that power the local economy such as Florida State University, Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, and Capital Health Plan. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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