The Mississippi Gulf Coast soccer community is grieving after the sudden loss of freshman defender Landon Perry, a rising athlete whose future was filled with promise. Perry, 18, died Sunday after a vehicle struck his electric scooter near the MGCCC Perkinston campus. Despite being rushed to the hospital, Stone County Coroner Wayne Flurry reported that his injuries proved fatal.
MGCCC soccer player died in car-scooter accident
Originally from D’Iberville, Perry arrived at MGCCC with talent already making waves. His résumé included competition in the prestigious Mississippi Coast All-Star Game, where he showcased both defensive skill and field awareness. Coaches viewed him not only as a player with strong potential, but as one capable of maturing into a leading figure for the Bulldogs program.
On Sunday, Perry and a fellow student were returning to campus when the collision occurred on Perkinston-Silver Run Road around 5:20 p.m. The second rider sustained injuries but is expected to recover. Authorities shared that the car’s driver stayed at the accident scene, cooperating with responders and investigators.
For Coach Chris Handy and the MGCCC squad, the loss reaches far beyond athletics. In a heartfelt message, Handy shared that Perry quickly became part of the team’s inner circle, valued for his personality, dedication, and the spirit he brought to daily training. His attitude, teammates said, was defined by positivity and respect, making him a natural fit within the program.
The tragic event has reminded many in the sports community that athletic careers, no matter how bright, are never guaranteed. Tributes continue to pour in from former teammates, coaches, classmates, and supporters. Though his career ended far too soon, Perry will be remembered as a gifted athlete and an even better person — someone whose presence shaped a locker room and inspired everyone fortunate enough to know him.
