‘This was a mistake’: Man accused of shooting Battie brothers in Sarasota claims self-defense

Georgia McCarthur
·1 min read
2

SARASOTA, Fla. (WFLA) — The man accused of shooting Auburn running back Brian Battie and his brother made his first court appearance on Thursday.

Battie was left in critical condition after the incident. His brother, Tommie Battie was killed.

Darryl Brookins was arrested in connection with the shooting on Wednesday.

“This was a mistake, had Mr. Brookins been given a chance to sit down with them he could of simply explained he was acting in self-defense when he was approached and shot at by multiple armed individuals, including Tommie and Brian Battie,” Brookins’ attorney Jacob Grollman said during his court appearance on Thursday.

WATCH: Surveillance video, 911 audio shed light on how Sarasota shootout unfolded

Deputies said they obtained video showing Brian and Tommie Battie walking toward Brookins in the parking lot outside a hookah lounge in the Tallywood Centre Plaza as Brookins leaned against the window at a nearby business. They said Brookins pulled out a gun and fired shots at them. Both brothers returned gunfire before they fell to the ground.

Authorities said Brian Battie was shot in the head and his brother was hit in the chest. Three other people were injured and rushed to area hospitals.

Deputies said Brookins fled the scene. His car was later found abandoned in the parking lot.

“The parents of the victim are living a waking nightmare, they are grieving for one and praying for another,” prosecutor Dale Race said.

“Unfortunately, law enforcement and the State Attorney Office were not interesting in hearing Mr. Brookins’ version of events before submitting a warrant for his arrest,” Grollman argued.

Brookins was charged with murder, attempted murder and felon in possession of a firearm. He is currently being held in Sarasota County jail. A judge ordered him to return to court Friday for a pretrial hearing at 1:30 p.m.

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