Battie out of ICU

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Auburn RB Brian Battie out of ICU after shooting, able to speak a few words

Updated: Jun. 14, 2024, 7:50 p.m.|Published: Jun. 14, 2024, 7:27 p.m.

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Auburn running back Brian Battie is out of the intensive care unit and moved to a trauma unit, according to an update on the GoFundMe page set up by Battie’s godmothers after a May shooting in Sarasota, Florida, left him critically injured and killed his brother Tommie Battie IV.

The post states Battie has a “traumatic brain injury“, but has been able to utter a few words — the most positive development thus far in his recovery after the shooting that.

Below is the full post from the GoFundMe, written by Battie’s mom Adriene:

”Brian is officially out of ICU and has moved on to the next level of trauma care. He has made great progress this week and is communicating more. He is smiling, laughing and getting words out. His two favorite words right now have been Brother and Tommie He was able to write his name yesterday. We are asking all our prayer warriors to continue to pray for Brians recovery and complete healing from the top of Brians head to the soles of his feet! He still has a long road to recovery, we are exploring all our options for the very best Rehabilitation care to cater to his Traumatic Brain Injury. Asking for God to lead our steps as we advocate and research the very best for our Son. Finding strength through grief while simultaneously holding onto faith in the midst of adversity has been a journey unlike any other. Losing one son has tested our spirits, leaving our heart broken, but seeing our other son emerge from the ICU and make progress fills us with hope and gratitude. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is still light. We hold onto faith, cherish every small victory, and continue to trust in the healing process. We are so blessed with an amazing support circle. Continually lifting us up, helping with Ana, helping with research and helping to counsel us through the unimaginable. You know who you are…. THANK YOU ALL for your unwavering support and prayers during this challenging time. Your love means everything to us and we will be forever grateful and know you will be blessed in tenfold for your pure intentions to seek our very best interests. ❤️‍”

Previous court documents stated Battie could have “permanent paralysis“ if he survived the shooting. Deputies in Sarasota arrested alleged shooter Darryl Brookins and charged him with murder for the shooting of Tommie Battie and attempted murder for the shooting of Brian Battie.

Court documents state Brookins fired at the Battie brothers as they approached him at a strip mall in Sarasota. The Battie brothers returned fire, according to documents before both were struck.

Deputies also arrested Brookins girlfriend Nicole Roberts, according to court documents, for allegedly disposing the gun used in the shooting into a river in nearby Manatee County. a pre-trial detention hearing for Roberts was held over Thursday and Friday. No decision has been made according to documents posted in her court file as of Friday evening.

Battie has gradually made progress since the May shooting before Friday’s significant update.

The GoFundMe has raised more than $109,000.

Matt Cohen covers Auburn sports for AL.com. You can follow him on X at @Matt_Cohen_ or email him at mcohen@al.com