Former Alabama football player Terrance Howard’s family accused the hospital that treated him for brain damage of “trying to kill him” for the purpose of organ harvesting after he was struck by a car on I-85 in North Carolina in July.
Howard’s parents released a series of videos on social media accusing the hospital that treated him, Atrium Health, of malpractice and organ harvesting.
Howard’s father, Bishop Anthony Allen, alleged that the hospital “put something in Terrance’s IV to kill him” and prevent a transfer to another hospital.
![Terrance Howard #34 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates after recovering a fumble in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines during the CFP Semifinal Rose Bowl Game](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/08/34-alabama-crimson-tide-celebrates-87180915.jpg?w=1024)
“They told me that they wanted my son’s organs,” Howard’s mother said in a video. “They’re trying to kill my son because they want his organs.”
The videos have since been posted on X.
Pastor Allen did not immediately respond to an email from The Post seeking further comment from him or a family attorney.
Atrium denied these claims in a statement to News One, a social justice outlet.
“As you know, federal privacy laws are very strict and do not permit us to address specific questions. What we can tell you unequivocally is that our medical professionals are among the best in the nation and take every reasonable measure to protect and preserve the life and health of those in our care at all times,” the hospital said.
“We extend our deepest sympathies in every tragic situation facing patients and their family members as they struggle with their personal circumstances. We also make it our practice to provide honest assessments about each patient’s health when communicating with family members and help them understand and explore appropriate care options for their loved ones.”
Howard was a walk-on at Alabama last season and in May decided to transfer to the HBCU North Carolina Central University.
As he was driving to NCCU, he was involved in a minor car accident.
![Terrance Howard #34 of the Alabama Crimson Tide recovers a fumble in the first quarter against the Michigan Wolverines during the CFP Semifinal Rose Bowl Game](https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/08/34-alabama-crimson-tide-recovers-87180956.jpg?w=1024)
His family told Houston NBC affiliate KPRC that he checked to make sure everyone in the other car was OK and was struck by an oncoming vehicle.
Howard suffered brain trauma and was placed on life support, but ultimately died on Aug. 1, according to North Carolina Central University.
Former Alabama head coach Nick Saban was among those who reached out and offered prayers and support, Howard’s family told KHOU.
Alabama’s new head coach, Kalen DeBoer, paid tribute to Howard at the team’s press conference on Sunday.
“I do want to send along thoughts and prayers,” DeBoer told reporters. “Terrance Howard, who was with us and transferred on to North Carolina Central. He did pass away and he’s got some guys that are here on this team that are close to him and are also thinking about him but I just want to send prayers and thoughts up to his family.”
North Carolina Central University released a statement honoring Howard.
“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,” the school said. “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.”