BURNET, Texas — Former University of Texas All-American wide receiver Jordan Shipley is hospitalized in Austin following a serious accident at his family ranch on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Shipley, 40, is currently listed in critical but stable condition as he begins treatment for severe burns.
Table of Contents
Jordan Shipley in ‘Critical but Stable’ Condition After Ranch Accident
Details of the Incident
According to a statement released by the Shipley family, the accident occurred Tuesday afternoon near Shipley’s hometown of Burnet. Shipley was operating a machine on the ranch when it suddenly caught fire.

While he was able to escape the vehicle, he sustained third-degree burns over approximately 20% of his body before reaching safety. A ranch hand discovered Shipley shortly after the incident and drove him to a local hospital. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was care-flighted to Dell Seton Medical Center in Austin for specialized care.+2
Community and Family Reaction
The Shipley family, including Jordan’s father, former Longhorn assistant coach Bob Shipley, has asked for the community to “lift up Jordan and the family in prayer.”
News of the accident quickly spread across the Longhorn community, with fans and former teammates offering support for one of the most beloved figures in the program’s history.
Shipley is currently undergoing the first of what are expected to be several surgeries as doctors address the third-degree burns.
A Legacy on the Forty Acres
Jordan Shipley remains a towering figure in Texas Longhorns history:
- School Records: He holds the record for career receptions (248) and is second in career receiving yards (3,191).
- Iconic Moments: He is famously remembered for his kickoff return touchdown in the 2008 Red River Rivalry and his connection with quarterback Colt McCoy, which led Texas to the 2009 BCS National Championship game.
- Professional Career: After his record-breaking college career, Shipley was a third-round pick for the Cincinnati Bengals in 2010 and also spent time with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Shipley is married to musician Sunny Shipley, and the couple has children. The family has expressed gratitude for the immediate assistance of the ranch worker and the medical teams in Austin.
Doug LaMalfa Dead Who Recently Secures Over $233 Million for Rural Healthcare
You may join my Twitter Account for more news updates, Wordle, and more game answers & hints daily.