Sarasota, FL – In a tragic turn of events, Tommie Battie, a former running back for Braden River High School, has died, and his brother, Brian Battie, an Auburn University running back, was critically injured in a shooting at a Sarasota hookah bar late Friday night. The incident occurred at approximately 11:30 PM at the popular nightspot, shocking patrons and the local community.
Tommie Battie, remembered for his outstanding athleticism and contributions to the Braden River football team, succumbed to his injuries at the scene. His brother, Brian Battie, who had recently completed a successful season with the Auburn Tigers, was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he remains in critical condition.
Witnesses report that the altercation began inside the hookah bar and escalated rapidly. Security footage, now in possession of local authorities, shows the chaotic moments leading up to the gunfire. The Sarasota Police Department is actively investigating the incident and has urged anyone with information to come forward.
The Battie family, well-known in the local sports community, is now facing an unimaginable loss. Friends, teammates, and coaches have expressed their sorrow and support. “Tommie was a fierce competitor on the field and a kind-hearted individual off it,” said Coach Jacob Jefferson, Tommie’s former high school coach. “Brian is fighting for his life, and our thoughts and prayers are with him and his family during this difficult time.”
A vigil is planned for this weekend at Braden River High School, where the community will gather to honor Tommie’s memory and pray for Brian’s recovery. The family has requested privacy as they navigate this devastating period.
For those wishing to offer support, a GoFundMe page has been set up to assist with medical expenses for Brian and funeral costs for Tommie. The page has already seen an outpouring of generosity, a testament to the Battie brothers’ impact on their community.
The loss of Tommie Battie and the critical condition of Brian Battie serve as a stark reminder of the senseless violence that continues to affect communities. Authorities are hopeful that the investigation will yield swift justice for the Battie family.
This tragedy has not only left a void in the hearts of those who knew the Battie brothers but has also cast a pall over the entire community. As Sarasota mourns the loss of a young life and prays for the recovery of another, the collective hope is for healing and justice.
