WATCH: Disturbing Video Shows High School Football Player Fracture Opponent’s Spine in Brutal Incident; Athletic Association Declines Immediate Disciplinary Action
Credit: WSBT-TV YouTube screenshot
A shocking video has surfaced showing a junior varsity football player in Michigan being violently assaulted by an opponent during a game last week. Despite the severity of the incident, no official disciplinary action appears to have been taken against the player responsible.
According to WSBT, the incident occurred during a junior varsity matchup in Berrien County between the Kalamazoo Central Maroon Giants and the Lakeshore Lancers. In the third quarter, a Maroon Giants player lost his temper and aggressively attacked a Lakeshore defender in a move that seemed intended to cause serious harm.
The footage reveals the 15-year-old Lakeshore defender tangled with a Kalamazoo Central offensive lineman before the lineman forcefully leapt onto him with his full body weight. The impact was devastating.
During a junior varsity football game in Berrien County, Michigan, on September 19, 2025, Lakeshore High School player Colton Mims sustained severe spine fractures after an opponent jumped on him.
What do you notice about the two players? pic.twitter.com/q66vASl5Ai
— 🇺🇸 Larry 🇺🇸 (@LarryDJonesJr) September 20, 2025
Local resident Courtney Mims identified her son, Colton, as the victim of the assault. Colton was hospitalized and diagnosed with two fractures in his spine. While doctors expect him to recover, Courtney expressed deep concern that he may never be able to play football again.
“These are just 15-year-old boys. Football means the world to them — it’s a huge part of their lives. They put in countless hours before and after school. For someone to try to take that away from them, especially when they work so hard, it’s heartbreaking to see,” Mims said.
It remains unclear whether the Kalamazoo Central player faced any disciplinary measures from the school. The Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA) confirmed it is aware of the incident but stated that both schools are handling the matter internally. The association did not impose an immediate suspension on the player involved, raising questions about their response.
Despite the violent episode, Lakeshore went on to defeat Kalamazoo Central 26-7, dedicating the victory to Colton.