Parents Demand Answers After Student’s Severe Injuries

Tuscumbia, AL, August 28, 2025

News Summary

A freshman football player at Deshler High School suffered severe injuries after being found unconscious on school stairs. Conflicting reports about the cause have left the family and community seeking clarity. The investigation is ongoing as officials work to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident and provide necessary support to those affected.

Tuscumbia, AL – Parents Demand Answers After Deshler High School Student Sustains Severe Injuries in Mysterious Incident

On August 19, 2023, August Borden, a freshman football player at Deshler High School, suffered severe injuries after being found unconscious on the stairs in front of the school. He was discovered with multiple skull and facial fractures, leading to immediate medical attention.

August was transported to UAB Hospital in Birmingham, where he remained unconscious for two days. Following his hospitalization, August has returned home but continues to exhibit symptoms such as headaches, blurred vision, exhaustion, and memory lapses. Notably, August cannot recall the circumstances surrounding his injury, describing the day as a complete blackout.

As details surrounding the incident emerge, conflicting reports have surfaced regarding the cause of his injuries. While some sources claim that August fell down the stairs, others suggest the possibility of a scuffle with another student. This lack of clarity has led to frustration among his family and community members.

Investigation Status

The investigation into the incident currently falls under the jurisdiction of the Tuscumbia Police Department. Police Chief Tony Logan emphasized that the investigation has not revealed any indications of criminal activity as they are still waiting to speak with August to clarify the events that led to his injuries. The case has since been transferred to the Franklin County Juvenile Probation Office, with additional support from the Madison County District Attorney’s Office.

Superintendent Russell Tate of Tuscumbia City Schools has confirmed that all football players were under the supervision of coaches at the time of the incident. However, the absence of security cameras in the incident area, which is located over 100 yards from monitored entrance zones, has raised concerns about the school’s ability to effectively monitor such incidents.

Following the incident, school employees acted quickly and called 911, implementing CPR on August while waiting for emergency services. The initial 911 report described the situation as a fall and indicated that the student was experiencing a seizure. An ambulance arrived approximately five minutes later.

Jason Borden, August’s biological father, has expressed concern regarding the lack of information provided by the school and emergency responders immediately following the incident. He learned about the circumstances from August’s stepfather and later from his football coach, who mentioned a possible confrontation with another student. Reports indicate that at least two faculty members witnessed an event involving another student allegedly picking up August and then dropping him, leading to his injuries.

Parental Concerns and Community Response

The Tuscumbia Mayor has acknowledged the numerous questions surrounding the event and confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Jason Borden voiced his frustration regarding the conflicting narratives and the school’s response, alleging insufficient transparency in the matter.

In the wake of the incident, August’s parents have initiated a crowdfunding campaign to help with medical expenses and legal representation. In recognition of the emotional toll that this incident has taken, Tuscumbia City Schools is offering counseling services for both students and staff affected.

Conclusion

The Tuscumbia Police Department remains committed to conducting a thorough and fair investigation while respecting the privacy of those involved. As more information becomes available, officials hope to clarify the circumstances surrounding August Borden’s injuries and address the concerns voiced by his family and the local community.

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Additional Resources

• WAFF: Parents of Injured Deshler High School Student Provide Update on His Recovery
• Wikipedia: Deshler High School
• WHNT: Family of Deshler Student Severely Injured at School Provides Update
• Google Search: Deshler High School incident
• WAAY: Tuscumbia Mayor Shares Update on Injured Deshler High Student
• Google Scholar: Deshler High School injury case
• KBTX: Parents Want Answers After Son Severely Injured
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Deshler High School
• AL.com: Father of Injured Deshler Teen Wants Answers
• Google News: Deshler High School investigation

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