MISSOURI CITY, Texas — A former star athlete from the Houston area remains in critical condition after a car crash in North Carolina, according to his family.
Terrance “T” Howard is a 2022 graduate of Ridge Point High School in Missouri City where he was described as a "shining star and dedicated athlete." He played as a walk-on at the University of Alabama before transferring to North Carolina Central University where he received a full-ride scholarship.
Howard was moving his belongings from Alabama to Durham when he was involved in a traffic accident. When got out of his vehicle to check on the other motorist, he was struck by a car.
"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," Brooke Tigtig, the mother of Howard's girlfriend, said. "So I think it took some time for them to be able to contact his parents."
Now, Howard's loved ones are praying for a miracle for the young man known as "T."
"If anyone deserves a miracle, it is Terrance Howard, it is T," Tigtig told us.
Howard and his girlfriend are high school sweethearts so the family has known him for years.
"He wins people over right off the bat," Doug Tigtig said. "Respectful, super funny, just life of the party, laughing all the time kind of guy."
Howard's parents are at their son's bedside in North Carolina but want to bring him home.
"It’s extremely hard for them to care for him in a state they’re not from," Tigtig said. "It's been a roller coaster just because of the reality of what he’s in."
A GoFundMe has been set up to help pay for specialized treatment and emergency medical transport to Houston. As of Monday afternoon, it had raised nearly $37,000.
Tigtig said the family is grateful for all of the prayers and support from people all over, including former Alabama Coach Nick Saban.
Here is his family's full message from the GoFundMe.
"Dearest family and friends of Terrance Emanuel Lamont Howard,
"Our hearts are heavy as we come to you with a plea of help. Terrance “T” Howard, a shining star and dedicated athlete of Ridge Point High School, University of Alabama, and North Carolina Central University, is fighting the battle of his life.
"Terrance was involved in a horrific car accident. It is believed that he got out of his car to render aid, and while doing so, was hit and the severity of his injuries has left him in critical condition. His next best step is to secure specialized medical treatment with the goal of moving him back to Houston where his family resides.
"The family stands by him as he fights for each minute, hour, and day. The ultimate journey back home is filled with financial challenges and logistical hurdles. The cost associated with his medical transportation is overwhelming for his family, who is already bearing the emotional weight of this tragedy. Your generous donation will go directly towards:
- Emergency transportation from Charlotte North Carolina to Houston
- Life-saving specialized treatment
- Any additional costs related to his long and arduous road to recovery
"Terrance is more than just an athlete; he is a beloved son, brother, friend, and inspiration to many. In this critical moment, it is our turn to rally around him, to be the strength he needs to keep fighting."