By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
Officials have closed the investigation into the case of August Borden, the 15-year-old Deshler High School student who suffered severe head injuries in August, ruling the incident a tragic accident rather than a criminal act.
During a Wednesday press conference, Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard announced that no criminal charges would be filed after a monthlong investigation into the incident that left Borden hospitalized with a fractured skull, two broken orbital sockets, and other injuries.
“We uncovered no evidence that would support any kind of criminal charges in this case,” Broussard said. “What we have is more or less typical high school banter and some limited physical contact involved with no malice or anger — a freak, unfortunate accident.”
What Investigators Found
According to Chief Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann, Borden and another football player were joking and laughing after a workout when the teammate playfully gave him a “bear hug.” Moments later, Borden coughed, the student let go, and Borden stumbled on an uneven six-inch concrete landing before collapsing face-first.
“The first thing that hits is the side of his face,” Gann explained. “He immediately went into seizure-like symptoms consistent with a severe concussion.”
Investigators interviewed 17 witnesses, including eight eyewitnesses, and reviewed text messages from the time of the incident. Gann said while the injuries appeared “consistent with an assault,” the evidence did not support that claim.
Borden’s family expressed disappointment that no charges would be pursued but accepted the findings, officials said.
A Community Impacted
The August 19 incident sparked widespread concern in Tuscumbia, leading to social media discussions, community podcasts, and demands for answers. Borden, who was airlifted to Children’s Hospital