Deshler High School Students, Adrian Bryan and Price Thornton, Celebrate on Snapchat After Beating August Borden Into ICU — Officials Rule It a ‘Tragic Accident’ Despite Family Outrage

Two Deshler High School students, Adrian Bryan and Price Thornton, are under public scrutiny after allegedly assaulting fellow student August Borden, leaving him hospitalized in critical condition. Reports initially indicated that Borden was beaten and slammed to the ground after confronting Thornton over his alleged relationship with a 13-year-old girl — accusations that sparked outrage across the community, particularly after the suspects were seen celebrating on Snapchat following the incident.

However, according to Madison County District Attorney Rob Broussard, investigators have since determined the episode to be a tragic accident rather than a criminal act.

Officials stated that on August 19, following football practice, Borden and another teammate were “joking around” when one of them gave him a playful bear hug. Moments later, August reportedly lost his balance, tripped on uneven pavement, and fell, sustaining a severe head injury.

Despite early rumors of a violent altercation, authorities reviewed 17 witness statements and text messages exchanged before and after the incident, concluding there was no evidence of anger, intent, or malice.

“This was a freak, unfortunate accident,” said Chief Deputy District Attorney Tim Gann, emphasizing that the evidence didn’t support criminal charges.

August’s family, while grateful for his survival, expressed disappointment that no charges will be filed. The 15-year-old was airlifted to Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, where he spent weeks in the ICU. He has since returned home but continues to recover and reportedly has no memory of the fall.

The case has stirred mixed reactions online, especially following the alleged Snapchat video showing Bryan and Thornton celebrating after the incident — which many viewed as deeply insensitive given August’s condition.

Authorities maintain the case is closed and that no further criminal action will be taken unless new evidence surfaces.