Fallen HBCU Athlete and State Trooper Leaves Legacy of Service

With heavy hearts, the HBCU community mourns the loss of North Carolina Central University (NCCU) alumnus and state trooper Steven Perry. Perry, a former offensive lineman for the NCCU Eagles, was killed in the line of duty on Sunday in a tragic wrong-way crash on the Durham Freeway.

The 30-year-old master trooper was responding to a call when his Dodge Charger was struck head-on by a vehicle traveling southbound in the northbound lanes. Authorities identified the other driver as Melshawn Moore, 39, of Kinston, North Carolina. Both Perry and Moore tragically died in the collision.

The North Carolina State Highway Patrol noted that impairment may have been a factor in the devastating incident, though the investigation remains ongoing. In a heartfelt tribute, the agency praised Perry's nearly 7-year career, saying he had served Durham County with distinction.

Before donning the state trooper's uniform, Perry was a standout on the NCCU offensive line, where he spent three seasons from 2015 to 2017.

"He's been around here three years waiting behind Carl Jones. I'm looking forward to him taking control of that center spot."

Perry's commitment to NCCU ran deep, as his father, James Perry, previously served as the Eagles' strength and conditioning coach, further rooting the family in the program's football culture. On Sunday, the NCCU Athletics department paid tribute to their former student-athlete, sending "strength, comfort, and our sincere condolences to Trooper Perry's family and friends."

For many HBCU athletes, the sport they play becomes the foundation for leadership, discipline, and service beyond the game. Perry's journey reflected that path, as he returned to serve the same community where he grew up and played college football. Assigned to Durham County, he spent nearly seven years with the State Highway Patrol, putting his HBCU values into action.

HBCUConnect Perspective: Steven Perry's life and legacy embody the core mission of HBCUs – to cultivate leaders and visionaries who use their talents and education to uplift their communities. As a student-athlete who transitioned into a life of public service, Perry's story speaks to the transformative power of HBCU experiences and the lasting impact they have on graduates. His tragic passing is a profound loss for the NCCU family and the HBCU community at large, but his example of selfless dedication will continue to inspire generations of students to follow in his footsteps.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.