Deshler, Alabama, October 9, 2025
News Summary
Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard announced no criminal charges will be filed in the case of August Borden, a Deshler High School student who sustained serious injuries. Described as a ‘freak accident,’ the investigation found no evidence of malice or intent among the students involved. Witnesses reported a bear hug incident before Borden’s fall, which resulted in significant injuries. The community has voiced concerns about accountability and safety measures in schools following the incident.
Deshler, Alabama – Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard announced that no criminal charges will be filed in the case of August Borden, a Deshler High School student who suffered serious injuries earlier this month. Broussard called the incident a “freak, unfortunate accident” and stated that there was no evidence to support any criminal charges against the individuals involved.
The investigation concluded that the situation involved typical high school banter and limited physical contact without malice or anger among students. Borden was injured on August 19, 2025, after falling on uneven concrete steps and hitting his head. Chief Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann noted that while Borden’s injuries were “consistent with an assault,” the investigation did not indicate that an assault occurred. Witness reports suggested that Borden was jokingly bear-hugged from behind by another student just prior to the incident.
During the investigation, 17 interviews were conducted, including at least eight eyewitnesses. The inquiry also assessed real-time text messages exchanged among students at the time of the event. Despite providing significant details to investigators, Borden himself does not remember the incident. The identities of those involved will not be disclosed due to their juvenile status.
Borden’s family expressed disappointment that charges were not being pursued but were receptive to the information provided by the DA’s office. Initially, Colbert County officials determined that the incident was a criminal case, leading them to refer it to the Madison County District Attorney’s Office due to a conflict of interest. Following the incident, Borden was airlifted to a hospital with brain injuries, broken orbital bones, and other serious injuries.
The circumstances surrounding Borden’s injury were clouded by conflicting narratives, with some witnesses claiming he fell and others suggesting he was attacked. In response to growing community concern and speculation, Borden’s father, Jason Borden, demanded an investigation from Tuscumbia Police.
According to witness accounts, Borden coughed or made a “weird sound” and appeared to faint shortly after the bear hug. He then took a few steps before losing consciousness and fell, injuring his head when it hit the ground. A coach and another witness rendered immediate aid before first responders transported Borden via med-flight to the Children’s Hospital in Birmingham.
In the aftermath of the injury, the community rallied around Borden, leading to calls for justice, protests, and public discussions across social media platforms, including a podcast that captured events surrounding the incident. Since being discharged from the hospital, Borden has returned home for recovery but has not yet resumed attending school.
Background on the Incident
The episode at Deshler High School drew significant attention due to the serious nature of Borden’s injuries and the differing accounts of how the incident occurred. Initial frustration among community members was directed towards how the investigation would proceed and the perceived lack of accountability for any actions leading to Borden’s injuries. The involvement of the DA’s office after the case was referred by local officials underlined the seriousness with which authorities viewed the situation.
Community Reactions
Following the announcement of no criminal charges, community advocates and Borden’s family expressed varied feelings. While the family showed understanding towards the investigation outcomes, many local residents voiced their disappointment through various channels, emphasizing a need for greater awareness and safety measures within school environments.
Conclusion
The investigation into the incident involving August Borden highlights the complexities surrounding high school interactions and the accountability of students. As the community navigates the aftermath, support for Borden’s recovery remains a significant focus.
FAQ
What happened to August Borden at Deshler High School?
August Borden suffered serious injuries after falling on uneven concrete steps and hitting his head.
Will any criminal charges be filed in the incident?
No criminal charges will be filed. The district attorney described the incident as a “freak, unfortunate accident.”
What did the investigation reveal about the incident?
The investigation concluded that the situation involved typical high school banter and limited physical contact without malice or anger among students.
What were Borden’s injuries?
Borden was airlifted to a hospital with brain injuries, broken orbital bones, and other injuries.
How did the community react to the incident?
The community rallied around Borden, expressing calls for justice, protests, and discussions circulating on social media.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | August 19, 2025 |
| Name of Injured | August Borden |
| Nature of Injuries | Brain injuries, broken orbital bones |
| Outcome of Investigation | No criminal charges filed |
| Community Response | Support for Borden, calls for justice |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Madison County DA: Deshler High Student Injured in Freak Accident
Madison County District Attorney Closes Case on August Borden
Lee-Huntsville Football Team Prepares for Optimistic Season
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Madison DA Holding Press Conference in Case of Injured Deshler High Teen August Borden
- WAFF: Case Closed – Madison Co. District Attorney’s Office Says August Borden Case was Freak Accident
- Hindustan Times: August Borden Update – Deshler High School’s Teen Ruled Freak Accident Case Closes with No Charges
- WHNT: Madison County DA to Host News Conference on Injured Deshler HS Student
- Wikipedia: High School Football in the United States
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison 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 Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
