Terrance Howard, 19, an N.C. Central student planning to join the school’s football team this fall, has died following an accident on July 22.

According to N.C. State Highway Patrol, the incident began when a Jeep SUV and a BMW SUV collided on I-85 North just past Lane Street. The driver of the Jeep, Howard, reportedly got out to check on the driver of the BMW and was hit while in the roadway by a Ford SUV that was traveling north. That Ford then hit the Jeep before coming to rest in the road.

Howard, from Texas City, Texas, was taken to Charlotte Medical Center Main, where he remained in a medically induced coma until Aug. 1, when he died.

The driver of the Ford, Lametra Moody, 37, of Salisbury, was taken to Atrium Northeast Hospital and treated for minor injuries.

The initial investigation indicates speed and alcohol were not contributing circumstances in the collision and no charges will be filed in this case.

Last year, Howard was a walk on at the University of Alabama. This year he had planned to join the Eagles.

In a statement, Dr. Carrie G. Dixon, N.C. Central chancellor said:

“I am deeply saddened to announce the tragic loss of Mr. Terrance Howard, a first-year transfer student and valued member of the NCCU football team.

“A native of Texas City, Texas, Terrance was excited to continue his collegiate football career with the Eagles and foster deep connections with his new teammates. Terrance’s contagious excitement, energized personality and infectious laughter made him someone everyone wanted to be around. He was a dedicated teammate, always ready to support, uplift and inspire his fellow Eagle to give their best.

“He was also an avid reader and a lover of country music, often serenading his teammates on the field and during workouts. His ‘silly songs’ were a source of entertainment and bonding among his peers.

“A committed scholar, Terrance was eagerly looking forward to the academic opportunities that he would encounter in his pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in behavioral health and social sciences. He had a strong desire to help others and aspired to build a fulfilling career in the family relations field following graduation.”