City officials are looking for clarification after a high school student in Deshler was seriously hurt in an incident last week.

August Borden, a 15-year-old freshman football player, was airlifted to Birmingham on August 19 after reportedly being the first to fall at school. His parents shared that he sustained a fractured skull and was unconscious for nearly two days before being released from the hospital on Thursday. Currently, Borden is recovering at home.

Tuscumbia Mayor William Foster addressed the community on Monday, noting that differing accounts of the incident are complicating the investigation.

“First and foremost, we have a young man in our community who needs our prayers and positive thoughts. Regardless of beliefs, his family requires our help, love, and support,” he said.

“An emergency call was dispatched last Tuesday at about 4 p.m. The student was hurt at Deshler High School. The initial report indicated an injury, CPR was in progress, and the student had a seizure, prompting the helicopter for air evacuation.”

“Our priority was to ensure the young man received necessary medical care swiftly. It seems that our first responders and medical professionals handled the serious situation well. We’re relieved to report that he was discharged on Thursday and is recovering at home.”

Foster mentioned that Borden’s memories of the incident are “slight at best.”

“He describes that day as a blackout. The Tuscumbia investigators, under Chief Secretary Tony Logan, are diligently gathering all relevant facts, especially with sensitivity to the injured youth and his family during this challenging time.”

“We are committed to getting to the bottom of this. The initial 911 call was for medical assistance, not reporting a crime. Some reports indicated he fell down the stairs while others suggested he fell outside the building.”

“My point is, our investigators must navigate through these conflicting accounts, establish the facts of the case, and uncover the truth.”

Borden’s parents took to Facebook, expressing how shaken they are by the circumstances and their desire for answers. In their update, they indicated that August is expected to make a full recovery within weeks, although he may need further treatment for the facial fracture if swelling decreases.

The Tuscumbia Police Department confirmed that the situation is under investigation and is “taken very seriously.”

“Our investigators are actively reviewing all available information and evidence,” the department stated. “Due to the ongoing investigation, we can’t disclose specific details at this time. However, our main focus is to ensure a thorough and fair process while respecting the privacy and welfare of everyone involved.”

The Tuscumbia school district issued a statement from Superintendent Russ Tate on Monday morning, confirming collaboration with law enforcement but noting that they cannot share details due to federal student privacy laws.

“This is an active investigation. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) regulations prevent us from discussing information related to minor students. Our aim is to assist the Tuscumbia Police Department and not interfere with their investigation.”

“We continue to pray for the injured students and their families and ask the community to keep them in your thoughts.”