A football player from the University of Alabama at Birmingham allegedly stabbed two teammates before their scheduled game against the University of South Florida, according to a statement from the university. Interim head coach Alex Mortensen informed during a post-game press conference that the injured players were in stable condition. Despite the incident, the team decided to proceed with the game as a tribute to graduating seniors in their final home game of the season. Several players opted out of the match understandably.
The suspected teammate responsible for the stabbing was taken into custody, but the university did not disclose the identities of those involved. Daniel Mincey, an offensive lineman who joined the school in May, was arrested on charges of aggravated assault and attempted murder later in the day as per Jefferson County Jail records. Mincey, a redshirt freshman from Pompano Beach, Florida, and formerly from the University of Kentucky, was the only UAB player arrested that day.
Legal representation for Mincey was uncertain, and attempts to contact family members for comments were unsuccessful. UAB officials refrained from confirming Mincey’s involvement in the incident. The team continued with their regular game-day routines after deciding to play, and counseling services were offered to players seeking support.
Coach Mortensen chose not to disclose further specifics regarding the stabbing incident due to the ongoing investigation. The stabbing took place at the Football Operations Building on campus. Despite the disruption, the Blazers suffered a defeat of 48-18 against South Florida, bringing their season record to 3-8 and 1-6 in the American Conference.