Community and Family Seek Clarity After Student Injury at Deshler High School
A student at Deshler High School in Tuscumbia, Alabama, is recovering after sustaining severe injuries during an incident that has left the community and his family seeking answers. August Borden, a freshman football player, was found injured on Tuesday afternoon, leading to an emergency response and ongoing investigation.
August’s parents, Drew and Kristen Van Devender, shared their concerns about what happened to their son. They expressed shock and confusion over the circumstances of the injury, which resulted in multiple skull and facial fractures. According to the couple, August was unconscious for two days and required immediate medical attention. Despite the severity of the situation, they are grateful that he is now home and recovering.
“We’re still confused. We don’t know what happened,” said Kristen Van Devender. “It’s a difficult time to see your child in that predicament and it was just a disarray.”
The Van Devenders emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability. “They want what we want,” Drew Van Devender said. “They just want transparency. They want everyone to do the right thing. And whether you’re an adult or a child, we’re all accountable for our activities.”
A Chaotic Scene and Ongoing Investigation
When the family arrived at the school, they were met with a chaotic scene. The couple described the environment as confusing and disorganized, adding that they had not expected such a situation. August is currently experiencing balance issues, delayed reactions, and headaches, but he is showing signs of improvement each day.
“He’s progressing,” Drew Van Devender noted. “Every day he’s getting a little bit better. One of his football friends stopped by yesterday and he was able to smile. It was the first time he had done that in a week so it was amazing seeing him smile.”
Despite these positive developments, the family remains focused on understanding how the injury occurred. “We need to get to the facts,” said Tuscumbia Police Chief Tony Logan. “We want to know what exactly happened because we’re extremely concerned about August’s wellbeing and his health.”
Logan confirmed that investigators are reviewing multiple accounts of the incident. “We’ve heard a couple different stories,” he said. “We’re reviewing all the statements that were given to administrators.” He also mentioned that while there are cameras on campus, they do not cover the outside stairs where August was found.
Community Support and Calls for Transparency
The community has rallied around the Van Devender family, offering support and concern. August is described by many as a kind and generous individual who always helps others. A close friend, a sophomore at Deshler High School, shared how much August means to her and others.
“Everybody loves August. August is the type of person, like, if you need something, he’s got you,” she said. “If you need a dollar in the lunch line and you don’t have it, ‘Oh, here’s two bucks. Go buy yourself a drink.’ He is the kid that everyone should want to be friends with.”
August’s biological father, Jason Borden, has also been involved in seeking clarity. He claims he has received conflicting information about what happened, with some suggesting that August fell down stairs, while others believe he was attacked by another student. However, police have no evidence of criminal activity at this point.
Mayor’s Statement and Continued Efforts
Tuscumbia Mayor William Foster released a statement addressing the incident. He praised the efforts of first responders and acknowledged the need for continued support for August and his family.
“Our first priority was to get the young man the medical attention he needed as quickly as possible,” Foster said. “On this, our first responders and medical professionals appear to have done excellent work with a serious injury.”
Foster also emphasized the importance of determining the truth behind the incident. “Our investigators have to suss through the conflicting stories and determine what the facts of the case are and determine the truth.”
He added that the police department will remain transparent throughout the investigation and may involve the Colbert County Sheriff’s Office to ensure a thorough review.
Community Involvement and Next Steps
Chief Logan and the Van Devenders are urging the community to come forward with any information that could help clarify the events. “We want to make sure we get to the facts,” Logan said. “We want to know what exactly happened.”
In addition, August’s friend plans to organize a prayer gathering for him next Saturday, expressing her hope that the community will continue to support him and his family.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on finding the truth and ensuring that August receives the care and support he needs. The community awaits further updates and hopes for closure in this challenging time.
