Ridge Point High School Football Star Dies in Tragic Accident
The Missouri City community is in mourning after the tragic death of Terrence Howard, a 19-year-old football star from Ridge Point High School. Howard was involved in a car accident in North Carolina and had been on life support for several days before succumbing to his injuries on July 30th.
Howard’s journey to varsity football was not an easy one. He didn’t play varsity until his senior year at Ridge Point High School, making him a late bloomer in the sport. However, his determination and hunger for the game made him a joy to coach, according to Rick LaFavers, his former coach. LaFavers recalls Howard’s tenacity, even in the face of defeat during competitive drills. “If he’d get beat, he’d be like go again, let’s go again,” LaFavers said, highlighting Howard’s resilience and love for the game.
In May, LaFavers invited Howard back to speak to his players, and it turned out to be their final interaction. LaFavers remembers Howard’s smile as he entered the coach’s office and hugged him before addressing the team. Little did LaFavers know that this would be their last encounter.
Howard had been preparing to play for North Carolina Central, and he was on his way to the campus when the accident occurred. During a rainstorm, Howard stopped to check on the occupants of another car involved in an accident when he was struck by a passing vehicle. He was immediately rushed to the hospital and spent ten days in a medically induced coma.
Throughout his time in the coma, friends and family, including LaFavers, called and spoke to Howard on speaker phone, hoping to stimulate brain activity. LaFavers recalls the recent encounter he had with Howard, which makes the situation even more heartbreaking. “He was just there, and it felt like there were positive signs,” LaFavers said.
Despite the prayers and hopes for a miracle, Howard tragically passed away. LaFavers reflects on Howard’s short time on Earth and the incredible resilience he displayed. After leaving Ridge Point, Howard walked on to the University of Alabama football team, and North Carolina Central was set to be the next chapter in his promising career. “He had so much in front of him, and he was such a competitor. Everybody loved him,” LaFavers said, emphasizing the potential and impact Howard had on those around him.
The loss of Terrence Howard has left the Missouri City community devastated. His story serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment. The outpouring of support and love for Howard and his family during this difficult time shows the impact he had on those who knew him. The community will continue to honor his memory and keep his spirit alive.
