Madison, October 10, 2025
News Summary
The Madison County District Attorney’s Office has closed the case regarding August Borden’s injuries, defined as a ‘freak accident.’ The freshman suffered serious injuries following an incident during a practice. After extensive investigation, authorities found no evidence of assault, leading to mixed reactions from the community and calls for justice.
Madison, Alabama – Madison County District Attorney Robert Broussard announced the closure of the criminal case regarding August Borden’s injuries, which he characterized as a “freak accident.” Borden, a freshman at Deshler High School, was severely injured on August 19, 2025, suffering multiple skull and facial fractures.
After the incident, Borden was unconscious for two days and was later airlifted to the Children’s Hospital in Birmingham for treatment. Following the tragic event, there was considerable community concern and speculation, with many rumors suggesting that Borden had been assaulted by fellow students. This led to protests and public demands for justice from the community.
The investigation into the incident was conducted by the Madison County District Attorney’s Office. The case was assigned to them by Attorney General Steve Marshall due to a conflict of interest in Colbert County. Deputy Chief District Attorney Tim Gann led the investigation, working alongside Chief Investigator Jim Cook and Investigator Chad Hargin.
During the investigation, at least 17 interviews were conducted, including eight with eyewitnesses present during the incident. Investigators determined that Borden and the other student involved had a friendly relationship, and there were no prior issues between the two. The incident occurred after Borden and his teammates had finished a workout and were walking to the field house for a film study session.
As the group walked, Borden was reportedly joking with another student when that student bear-hugged Borden from behind. A witness noted that, just before losing consciousness, Borden made a “weird sound.” As he fell, he slipped off a 6-inch landing, which caused a “catapult action,” making his knees hit the ground first, followed by his head. Witnesses recounted that Borden’s face hit the ground, with injuries reported on both the side and front of his face.
Following the fall, Borden went into a seizure. A coach along with an eyewitness rushed to provide aid until emergency services could arrive. They stabilized Borden before he was transported to a medical facility. All eyewitnesses provided consistent accounts of the events, leading investigators to the conclusion that there was no assault or malicious intent involved in the incident.
The District Attorney’s Office underscored that there was no evidence that warranted criminal charges. They stated that the incident is considered a tragic accident with no ill will or reckless behavior present. August Borden’s family expressed disappointment regarding the decision not to pursue criminal charges but were receptive to the conclusion drawn by the investigations.
This case has evoked strong reactions from the community, culminating in protests and the erection of a billboard demanding “Justice for August!”
Background Context
August Borden’s case has drawn significant attention due to the severe nature of his injuries and the community’s outcry for answers following the incident. The investigation was marked by a thorough collection of witness statements and the understanding of Borden’s relationship with the other student involved, which further clarified the nature of the incident. The ruling that Borden’s injuries were the result of a freak accident rather than an assault has led to mixed emotions within the community, highlighting the balance between investigative findings and public sentiment.
FAQ
What were the circumstances of August Borden’s injuries?
Borden was injured on August 19, 2025, during a walk with teammates after a workout when he was bear-hugged from behind by another student, leading to a fall.
How severe were August Borden’s injuries?
Borden sustained multiple skull and facial fractures and was unconscious for two days following the incident.
What was the result of the investigation into Borden’s injuries?
The investigation concluded that Borden’s injuries were the result of a “freak accident,” and no criminal charges will be filed.
Why was the Madison County District Attorney’s Office involved?
The case was assigned to the Madison County District Attorney’s Office by Attorney General Steve Marshall due to a conflict of interest in Colbert County.
What was the community’s response to the incident?
There was significant community concern, leading to protests and demands for justice, alongside rumors of an assault.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | August 19, 2025 |
| Victim | August Borden, freshman at Deshler High School |
| Injuries | Multiple skull and facial fractures |
| Investigation Head | Deputy Chief District Attorney Tim Gann |
| Number of Witness Interviews | 17 interviews |
| Finding | No evidence of assault; incident deemed a freak accident |
| Community Reaction | Protests and demands for justice due to initial rumors |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Multi-Vehicle Collision in Huntsville
No Criminal Charges Filed in Deshler High School Injury Case
Investigation Clears Individuals in Deshler High School Injury Case
Madison County DA: Deshler High Student Injured in Freak Accident
Madison County District Attorney Closes Case on August Borden
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Madison DA Holding Press Conference in Case of Injured Deshler High Teen August Borden
- WAFF: Madison Co. District Attorney’s Office Provides Update on August Borden Case
- WHNT: Madison County DA to Host News Conference on Injured Deshler HS Student
- Rocket City Now: Madison County DA Gives Update on Deshler High School Student Injury Case
- WAAYTV: A Freak Accident – No Criminal Charges to Be Filed in Case of Injured Deshler Football Player
- Wikipedia: Deshler High School
- Google Search: August Borden Deshler High School
- Google Scholar: Injury Investigation School
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Injury Case
- Google News: August Borden
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.
