UAB Freshman LB Allen Merrick Has Died as the Result of an Accidental Shooting

UAB freshman linebacker Allen Merrick died on Friday morning.  The team released a statement on Thursday through coach Bill Clark revealing that the 19-year-old was in the hospital after being shot.

Merrick suffered the accidental gunshot wound at his home.  Unfortunately the 2020 recruit, who had offers from Missouri, Nebraska, Purdue and Tennessee, ended up dying from his wounds.

From CBS Sports:

UAB freshman linebacker Allen Merrick has died after he suffered a gunshot wound on Thursday while visiting his home. Police in Gadsden, Alabama, are calling the incident an accidental shooting. Merrick passed away at UAB Hospital Friday morning. He was 19 years old.

Blazers coach Bill Clark released a statement Thursday after Merrick had been shot and admitted to the hospital.

"Please pray for the family of Allen Merrick, a young man who joined our UAB Football Family this season. Allen was visiting home in Gadsden yesterday when he suffered a gunshot wound," Clark said. "He is at UAB Hospital where I've been with Allen's family, but I do not have a condition I can share at this time. I ask that everyone please respect his family's privacy and keep them all in your prayers."

Shit.  This is another unfortunate reminder that no matter how bright your future is it can be cut short at any time.  It's also a reminder to be very careful with firearms, they can be very dangerous.