In Selma, Alabama, the community is grieving following the tragic death of a high school quarterback who suffered a serious brain injury during a football game just days ago. The teenager, Caden Tellier, was playing for John T. Morgan Academy in their season opener against Southern Academy when he was injured. Reports confirm that Caden, only 16 years old, was placed in critical condition after being tackled. He was subsequently transported to a local hospital where he passed away the following day.
According to statements released by school officials and Caden’s family, the young athlete was also an organ donor. In a heartfelt message, Caden’s parents shared their sorrow and noted, “Our boy, Caden Tellier has met Jesus face to face.” They emphasized his character, mentioning, “Everyone who knows Caden has known kindness, generosity, and love.” In a final act of giving, his organs will help save the lives of others.
Initial investigations suggest that Caden likely suffered a ruptured blood vessel in his brain during what was described as a routine play. Michael McLendon, the Executive Director of the Alabama Independent School Association, affirmed that spectators at the game did not notice anything unusual during the incident. He added that it might take some time to gather complete details about what occurred.
In the world of football, fatalities during games are infrequently seen. Data for this year indicates that there were 16 fatalities among football players—seven of which involved high school players. Among these, three resulted from traumatic brain injuries sustained during games.
School headmaster, Bryan Oliver, remembered Caden warmly, calling him a shining light in the school community. “He was a student, a friend, an athlete, and, most importantly, a Christ follower,” Oliver stated. Caden’s father and assistant coach, Jamie Tellier, spoke lovingly of his son’s enthusiasm for sports, saying, “But my son’s favorite thing was to talk about Jesus.”
The school has suspended all activities for the week in light of this tragedy. A time of prayer was held on campus for students and families to memorialize Caden. As the community grapples with the loss, a Go Fund Me campaign has quickly gained traction, raising over $85,000 to assist the Tellier family with medical and funeral expenses.
