Alabama high school football player dies of brain injury one day after injury during game

An Alabama high school football player has died one day after suffering a brain injury during a game.

Caden Tellier, 16, was flown by helicopter to the University of Alabama Hospital at Birmingham in critical condition after suffering a head injury during Friday's game at Morgan Academy in Selma. His death was announced the next day.

According to school principal Dr. Bryan Oliver, the injury occurred during a tackle in the third quarter of the season opener. AL reports.

“Our boy Caden Tellier has come to know Jesus face to face. We thank all of your prayers and ask for your care during the difficult days ahead,” Tellier's family said in a statement on social media.

Junior's family also confirmed that he is an organ donor. “Caden is best known for his kindness, generosity and love. True to his nature, he is giving of himself once again to save the lives of others by donating his organs,” they said.

Oliver confirmed that the school has canceled all sports activities for the rest of the week, including the football team's game this Friday.

“It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that Caden Tellier has gone to be with his Lord and Savior,” he said. “Caden loved the Lord with all his heart and was a shining light every day he walked into the halls of Morgan Academy. He was a student, a friend, an athlete and most of all, a follower of Christ.

“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 all our hearts. We also extend our deepest condolences to the extended Telliers family. I want to thank all the schools and individuals who have helped us during this difficult time. Caden will never be forgotten for who he was and what he means to Morgan Academy.”

A GoFundMe post to support Tellier's funeral arrangements and other medical expenses has raised over $75,000 so far.