SELMA, AL – A tragic incident occurred during a high school football game on Friday night, resulting in the death of Morgan Academy student-athlete Caden Tellier. The news of Tellier’s passing was confirmed by his family on social media late Saturday afternoon, following his serious injury during the game against Southern Academy.
Dr. Bryan Oliver, head of Morgan Academy, revealed that Tellier suffered a critical brain injury during a tackle in the third quarter and was subsequently airlifted to the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) for treatment. He was just 16 years old and was the starting quarterback for his team.
The family shared an emotional message, stating, “Our boy, Caden Tellier has met Jesus face to face… true to his nature, he is giving of himself one more time. Lives have been touched by the way he lived and now lives will be saved through his passing.” They also mentioned that he was an organ donor, continuing his legacy of kindness and generosity.
AISA executive director Michael McLendon expressed the heartbreak felt throughout the athletic community, saying, “At AISA, we are a close-knit family of schools, and our hearts are heavy.” In light of this tragedy, Morgan Academy has canceled all athletic activities for the upcoming week, including the scheduled game against Wilcox Academy next Friday.
Dr. Oliver echoed these sentiments in a statement, “There are no words to describe how we feel as a school community and family. We will come together and support Jamie, Arsella, and Lyla with our whole hearts. Caden will never be forgotten for who he was and what he means to Morgan Academy.”
Arrangements for a memorial service for the young athlete will be communicated soon, as the community mourns the loss of a bright young talent taken too soon.
