Terrance Howard, an exceptional football player from Texas, died a few days after transferring to North Carolina Central University (NCCU).
The former University of Alabama athlete was traveling to join his new team when he was involved in a fatal accident near Salisbury, North Carolina, on July 29, 2024. Howard, previously a University of Alabama player, was on his way to join his new team when the unfortunate event took place.
Howard’s trip to North Carolina was supposed to be the start of a new phase in his promising football career. The 19-year-old from Houston had earned a full scholarship to play for NCCU, a testament to his skill and dedication. However, while on his journey to North Carolina, his life was tragically cut short.
Howard was driving on Interstate 85 when he was involved in a minor collision. His family stated that he got out of his car to check on the other vehicle’s occupants. While showing concern for others, Howard was hit by another vehicle. He was rushed to a Charlotte hospital, where he remained on life support before dying from brain injuries on August 1, as confirmed by his girlfriend’s mother.
Howard’s death has deeply affected both the NCCU and Alabama football communities. His mother, in a heartfelt statement, acknowledged the support from both institutions. “The NCCU community has shown us tremendous support,” she said. “Coach Nick Saban from Alabama also reached out to offer his condolences. It means a lot to us.”
Howard’s alma mater, Ridge Point High School in Missouri City, Texas, also conveyed their grief. His former coaches and teammates remembered him as a committed and gifted athlete. Doug Tigtig, the father of Howard’s high school girlfriend, spoke highly of him: “He wins people over right off the bat. Respectful, super funny, just life of the party, laughing all the time kind of guy.”
Brooke Tigtig, Howard’s girlfriend’s mother, offered insight into the situation following the accident. “When he was picked up, he didn’t have ID on him so he was considered a John Doe. He was taken to one hospital and transferred to another,” she said, emphasizing the initial difficulties faced by his family in receiving information about his condition.
The outpouring of support from friends, fans, and even strangers has overwhelmed the family. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover medical and funeral expenses. The community’s desire to support the family in this challenging time led to the campaign quickly exceeding its goal.
As the community continues to grieve, plans are underway to honor Howard’s memory at NCCU and in his hometown. A memorial service is planned in Houston, where friends and family will gather to commemorate his life and legacy. Howard’s story serves as a testament to his character and the influence he had on those who knew him.
