Medrick Burnett Jr., linebacker for Alabama A&M, has tragically passed away a month after experiencing a serious head injury during a game.

Burnett, hailing from Lakewood, California, was injured in a head-on collision during the Bulldogs’ 27-19 defeat against Alabama State on October 26, just a day before his 20th birthday. This injury occurred during a kickoff return.

He was admitted to the hospital with severe brain bleeds and swelling, which led to him undergoing a craniotomy to relieve pressure, according to his sister, Dominece James, who set up a GoFundMe campaign for his medical expenses.

On Wednesday, the Jefferson County Coroner confirmed Burnett’s death to YSL News Sports. He was only 20 years old.

The athletic department of Alabama A&M announced his passing on Wednesday morning based on information from a close family member; however, they later retracted the statement at 6:13 PM ET, claiming that Burnett was still alive. The coroner recorded his time of death as 5:43 PM Central Time on the same day.

“Medrick was not just an outstanding athlete; he was an extraordinary young individual whose positivity, leadership, and kindness impacted everyone around him,” stated Dr. Paul A. Bryant, the director of athletics at Alabama A&M, in the university’s initial statement. “Although words cannot fully express our sorrow, we are inspired by the resilience of his family who remained by his side during this incredibly challenging time.”

Burnett transferred to Alabama A&M this season from Grambling State University and recorded five tackles for the team this year.