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Investigation Launched into Deshler High School Incident

Community members rallying for student safety in Tuscumbia

Tuscumbia, September 4, 2025

News Summary

The Madison County District Attorney’s Office has started an investigation into a violent incident involving a Deshler High School freshman, August Borden, who was critically injured. Borden reportedly suffered severe head trauma and was life-flighted to a hospital after CPR was administered at the scene. Conflicting reports about how he sustained his injuries have raised public concern and calls for accountability. The local community is rallying support through a fundraiser aimed at covering Borden’s medical expenses, even as the investigation continues amid growing frustration over the lack of clarity.

Madison County District Attorney’s Office Launches Investigation into Violent Incident Involving Deshler High School Student

The Madison County District Attorney’s Office has initiated an investigation into a violent incident involving a Deshler High School freshman, August Borden, who was critically injured on August 19. The 15-year-old was life-flighted to a hospital in Birmingham due to severe head trauma, including a fractured skull, two broken orbital sockets, a concussion, and various cuts and bruises.

Prior to the arrival of emergency medical services (EMS), it was reported that August’s heart had stopped, necessitating the administration of CPR, the identity of which is still unknown. Initially, school officials notified August’s parents that one or more students were responsible for his injuries; however, the narrative shifted, suggesting that his injuries were sustained from an accidental fall.

Amid public outcry for transparency, the Tuscumbia Police have started their investigation, transitioning the case from a medical incident to a potential criminal matter. Recently, the Tuscumbia Police announced they would turn the case over to the Franklin County Juvenile Probation Office, seeking assistance from the Madison County District Attorney’s Office. Chief Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann has stated that the investigation is starting from scratch, two weeks post-incident.

As a result of this incident, August has been recovering, albeit slowly. He is reportedly facing ongoing challenges such as headaches and vision issues. Family members have expressed a deep frustration with the lack of clarity and accountability regarding August’s injuries. His stepfather reported continuing health challenges, while his mother voiced her ongoing fight for justice. Additionally, August’s biological father has pledged to uncover the truth behind the situation.

An online fundraiser aimed at assisting with August’s mounting medical expenses has approached its $20,000 goal. This comes as various accounts of how he sustained his injuries circulate, with witnesses and officials presenting conflicting narratives. Reports range from claims of August falling from bleachers to suggestions of a physical altercation involving another student.

Tuscumbia Mayor William Foster confirmed that the initial 911 call indicated August had fallen, which led to the dispatch of a helicopter for his evacuation. It is important to note that August currently has no memory of the incident, and friends are also seeking answers regarding his condition.

The handling of this case is being approached with consideration for the family involved, aiming to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Background Context on the Incident

August Borden’s evaluations and treatment have drawn significant community attention in Tuscumbia. Since the incident, the local community has expressed concern over student safety and the need for accountability within the school environment. The discrepancies in the narratives presented by school officials and eyewitness accounts have further fueled public demand for a thorough investigation.

As developments unfold, the Madison County District Attorney’s Office, in collaboration with local law enforcement, strives to ascertain the truth behind these serious allegations and ensure that appropriate measures are taken moving forward.

Key Features of the Incident

Feature Description
Victim August Borden, 15-year-old Freshman
Date of Incident August 19
Injuries Fractured skull, two broken orbital sockets, concussion, cuts, and bruises
Medical Response Life-flighted to Birmingham hospital; CPR administered
Initial Claim Injuries caused by one or more students
Current Claim Accidental fall
Investigating Bodies Tuscumbia Police, Franklin County Juvenile Probation, Madison County District Attorney’s Office
Community Involvement Online fundraiser nearing $20,000 goal

FAQ

What happened to August Borden at Deshler High School?

August sustained severe head injuries under mysterious circumstances that involved initial reports of a fall and later claims of a possible physical altercation.

Who is investigating the incident?

The Tuscumbia Police are leading the investigation, with support from the Franklin County Juvenile Probation Office and the Madison County District Attorney’s Office.

What injuries did August Borden suffer?

August experienced a fractured skull, two broken orbital sockets, a concussion, and various cuts and bruises.

How is August currently doing?

August is recovering slowly but still suffers from headaches and vision issues.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER

The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.

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