The Book of David (25 page)

Amanda Tarstley (in studio): We now have an update on a story that we've been following all week. The young high school quarterback who was recently outed in an online video has been hospitalized for injuries sustained last night at his home. KATV's Roger Jackson is standing by at Arkansas Children's Hospital with details. Roger, can you tell us what happened?

Jackson (on location): I'm here at Arkansas Children's Hospital where eighteen-year-old
was admitted last night. Sources tell us that he is listed in stable condition after authorities responded to a 911 call placed by his younger sister,
. Police were called to the
home last night around nine thirty p.m. When paramedics arrived, they found
unconscious from what appeared to be a blow to the head. Authorities have not yet released a statement or filed charges, but from what we understand,
's father,
, has been taken into custody.

Tarstley: Is there any word on how this will affect his ability to play in the final games of the season or his scholarship opportunities?

Jackson: Amanda, as you recall,
had recently committed to a full-ride scholarship at USC for next year, and I had just completed an interview with him for the
Gazette
when a video surfaced last week of him kissing another young man. The video was made in secret and posted by a teammate. There has been some speculation among those close to the family that Mr.
was not supportive of his son's sexual orientation. The details are still sketchy, but according to my sources,
was trying to leave the house when his father allegedly attacked him.

As to his future, I spoke with Dave Joseph, a recruiter from USC who had been in touch with Mrs.
. He tells us that
is stable and was mainly kept overnight for observation to rule out a concussion. There were no broken bones, only superficial lacerations. He maintains that USC is fully invested in
and that he has their full and unwavering support.

Tarstley: A sobering report, Roger. Thank you so much for keeping us posted on the situation. We know that those of you watching at home may have a friend or loved one struggling with these issues. Or perhaps you yourself are a young gay person who feels unsafe or needs someone to talk to. There are resources available.

For a long time, I kept hearing people say that things would get better, but I didn't believe them.