FSU’s Ethan Pritchard Shot in the Head Under Mysterious Circumstances After Family Gathering, Father Reveals Shocking Details

It’s a tough scene unfolding over at Florida State — freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard was shot in the head late Sunday while driving back from a family get-together in Havana, Florida. According to his dad, Earl, who shared some tough updates with WFTV in Orlando, Ethan’s condition is stable now, but doctors are waiting on the swelling to go down before they can fully assess the damage. Imagine the shock — just turning a corner when gunshots rang out. The whole team, led by coach Mike Norvell, is rallying around him, keeping spirits up and sending constant prayers. Ethan, a promising 3-star recruit ranked nationally, has been missed on the field already this season, but clearly, there’s more going on than just football here. This isn’t just about the game; it’s about a brotherhood dealing with a harrowing reality. The investigation is still open, and everyone’s hoping for the best as the process unfolds. For those wanting the full picture and ongoing updates, here’s where you can get the details: LEARN MORE

Florida State freshman linebacker Ethan Pritchard is in stable condition after being shot in the head on Sunday night, his dad recently said.

Pritchard’s father, Earl Pritchard, told WFTV in Orlando that Ethan was driving himself and his aunt back from a family gathering in Havana, Florida, when the incident occurred. Earl also said doctors are waiting for the swelling to decrease before determining the wound damage.

“He was actually in the car taking my sister around the corner to her daughter’s house to drop her off,” Earl told WFTV. “They turned the corner, and as soon as they turned the corner, they heard gunshots.”

An investigation into the matter is still ongoing by local officials in Florida.

Florida State coach Mike Norvell said Wednesday he visited Ethan in the hospital and has remained in contact with Earl.

“It’s a lot,” Norvell said. “I try to give the players a daily update. I talked to Ethan’s dad this morning. I try to check on them daily. I was able to go yesterday for a short period — limited visitation — but just being there was good,” Norvell told the media. “He’s still in stable condition. We’re praying for him every day. It’s about being there for our players, too, because that’s one of their brothers and they deeply care about him.””

Ethan was a 3-star recruit in the 2025 class, ranked as the No. 507 player nationally and No. 54 linebacker, according to 247Sports’ Composite rankings. He didn’t appear in the Seminoles’ season-opening win over Alabama.

Florida State plays East Texas A&M on Saturday.

“We are going through the process,” Norvell said. “He’s got all things that are in front, we are absolutely praying for him every day and trying to be there for our players too,” Norvell said. “Yes, it’s one thing on the field, but it’s also off the field. Just working through this part of the tragedy of what it is.”