The prime suspect in the murder of the brother of Auburn running back Brian Battie and shooting Battie has turned himself in to authorities in Sarasota County, Florida.
Darryl Brookins was wanted in connection with a shooting that happened Saturday at the Tallywood Centre in the 3400 block of 17th Street. The shooting claimed the life of Tommie Battie IV. Brian Battie is reportedly on a ventilator and fighting for his life.
Per NFL Draft Diamonds:
"Investigators haven't released a motive, but Brookins has been charged with murder, attempted murder, and as a felon in possession of a firearm. He will be booked into the Sarasota County Correctional Facility."
Multiple reports suggest Brian Battie returned fire in the incident. Brookins reportedly is claiming self-defense in the incident.
Battie is 5-foot-7, 168 pounds and spent three seasons at South Florida before transferring to Auburn last year. He ran for 227 yards and a touchdown in his lone season with the Tigers and ranked fourth in the SEC in kick return average at 23.0 yards.
He also put together a stellar career at South Florida, rushing for 1,186 yards in 2022 and finishing his career there with 1,842 yards and 10 TDs.
A GoFundMe page started by two women who said they were godmothers of the Battie brothers had raised nearly $100,000.
Per the Associated Press:
"Tommy Battie IV was pronounced dead at the scene early Saturday.
"Brookins has been charged with murder and attempted murder as a felon in possession of a firearm. It was not immediately known if he had an attorney who could comment on his behalf.
"There has been no official update on Brian Battie's status. Auburn coach Hugh Freeze posted on social media Monday that Battie was 'still on a ventilator' after a setback the previous day."
