Clemson RB Shot In Head

Clemson running back Javis Austin had his right eye removed Thursday following what police say was a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

Austin, 21, was in critical but stable condition one day after the shooting, Anderson Area Medical Center spokeswoman Claire Redding said.

"Our hearts and prayers go out to Javis Austin and his family. Our only thoughts are with his recovery," coach Tommy Bowden said.

Bowden went to the hospital after Wednesday night's shooting along with athletic director Bobby Robinson, director of student athlete enrichment Bill D'Andrea and some teammates.

"We are certainly keeping Javis and his family in our prayers," receiver Brian Wofford said. "He is a member of our family and we are going to stand by him and help him any way possible."

A police report said Austin was alone at his home at the time of the shooting. He had not been at practice Wednesday, sports information director Tim Bourret said.

Someone, probably Austin, was able to call 911 at 6:06 p.m., department investigator Mike Eppes said. Eppes has requested the tape from Anderson County dispatchers to determine who made the call and what was said. The case is still being investigated.

Officer Carl Glenn saw Austin come out the back door of the house and sit on the edge of the porch, according to the police report. He was "extremely incoherent," with a wound to his right temple and his right eye partially detached.

Glenn found a shell casing on the floor and a .380-caliber pistol on the bed. There was blood on the bed and floor, the report said.

Austin, a junior from D.W. Daniel High School in Central, is a two-time letterman. He started the first two games this season and had his best game in the opener against Marshall.

Austin has played in only three of the past eight games. He has 36 carries for 120 yards in five games this season.

"Javis is a popular member of this team who had been working hard in practice," Bowden said.

More from CBS News