Tragic Loss for Morgan Academy Community in Selma, Alabama

Selma, Alabama – The Morgan Academy community is mourning after the untimely death of 16-year-old student-athlete Caden Tellier, who suffered a critical brain injury during a high school football game on Friday night. Tellier, the team’s quarterback, was injured during the third quarter of the game against Southern Academy.

Tellier was immediately airlifted to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital for treatment but, unfortunately, did not survive. The head of the school, Dr. Bryan Oliver, confirmed the news late Saturday afternoon after Tellier’s family shared their heartbreaking announcement on social media.

The family wrote, “Our boy, Caden Tellier has met Jesus face to face. We appreciate all of your prayers, and we covet them for the hard days ahead.” They also highlighted Caden’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and love, stating that he will continue to give through his decision to be an organ donor.

Dr. Oliver expressed the school’s deep sorrow, saying, “Caden loved the Lord with all his heart and was a shining light every day he graced the halls of Morgan Academy.” In a show of solidarity, all athletic activities for the coming week have been canceled, which includes a scheduled football game at Wilcox Academy.

The Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) also released a statement of condolence, noting that the schools within the association are a close-knit family and their hearts are heavy with this loss. Michael McLendon, the AISA executive director, expressed the collective grief within their family of schools.

The community is preparing to come together to support Tellier’s family during this challenging time, and arrangements for a memorial service will be made soon, as many honor the legacy of a young man whose life, though cut short, has already impacted many.