Two University of Alabama-Birmingham football players suffered stab wounds on Saturday, Nov. 22, in an incident at the school’s Football Operations Center.
“We’re grateful to report that two players injured in an incident this morning at the Football Operations Building are in stable condition,’ a UAB spokesperson wrote in a statement to USA TODAY. ‘Our thoughts are with them and their families as they recover.
‘The suspect — another player — remains in custody, and an investigation is taking place. The team elected to play today’s game. UAB’s top priority remains the safety and well-being of all of our students. Given patient privacy and the ongoing investigation, we have no further comment at this time.”
UAB offensive lineman Daniel Mincey was taken into custody at 12:40 p.m. CT on Nov. 22 and charged with aggravated assault with attempt to murder, according to Jefferson County Jail records.
Mincey started his career at Kentucky before transferring to UAB prior to the season.
Following UAB’s final home game of the season — a 48-18 defeat against South Florida — interim coach Alex Mortensen spoke to assembled media about the attack.
“More than anything, I’m grateful that those two players are in stable condition, and we will make sure that they have the support that they need,” Mortensen said (via AL.com). “I hope you will join me in lifting them and their families in your thoughts and prayers, as our team is doing right now too.’
Mortensen said he could not reveal the players who were stabbed, whose names have not been released. He added that the team as a whole decided to play the Bulls following the attack.
“The team as a whole decided they wanted to play today, but we did have several players who understandably chose to sit out, and we certainly respect that decision,” he said.
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.