Former HBCU Standout Football Player turned State Trooper Steven Perry Killed in Line of Duty

A former North Carolina Central University football player Steven Perry was killed early Sunday morning in a vehicle crash while serving as a North Carolina State Trooper. He was 30 years old.

Perry, a Master Trooper with the North Carolina Highway Patrol, died in the crash along with the driver of the other vehicle, Melshawn Moore, according to the Highway Patrol. The incident remains under investigation.

Before joining the Highway Patrol, Perry served the community of Durham County for seven years, earning a reputation as a dedicated and respected public servant. His death marks a tragic loss for both law enforcement and the local community he faithfully protected.

A native of Durham, North Carolina, Perry was also a standout student-athlete at NCCU, where he played football from 2014 to 2017. During his collegiate career, he appeared in 30 games, starting all 11 games as a senior, and was known for his leadership and toughness on the field.

Perry was a key contributor to NCCU’s historic 2016 season, helping lead the Eagles to a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) championship. That year, North Carolina Central finished a perfect 8–0 in conference play, cementing one of the most successful campaigns in program history.

Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in recognizing Perry not only for his athletic accomplishments, but for his commitment to service, integrity, and leadership beyond football.

Steven Perry is remembered as a champion on the field, a protector in uniform, and a proud son of Durham whose impact will be felt long after his passing.