Perkinston, MS — The Mississippi Gulf Coast soccer community is reeling from the sudden loss of Landon Perry, an 18-year-old freshman defender at MGCCC, who died Sunday following a tragic vehicle collision while riding his electric scooter. Despite immediate medical attention and being rushed to the hospital, Perry’s injuries were fatal, according to Stone County Coroner Wayne Flurry.
Perry, a rising star in the soccer world, was originally from D’Iberville and had already begun to make an impact at MGCCC. His resume included standout performances at the prestigious Mississippi Coast All-Star Game, where his defensive skills and field awareness drew praise from coaches and peers alike. With a future that looked bright, Perry was seen as a key player for the Bulldogs, with the potential to develop into a leader for the team.
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The tragic accident occurred around 5:20 p.m. on Sunday when Perry and a fellow student were returning to campus along Perkinston-Silver Run Road. While Perry was fatally injured, the second rider sustained injuries that are not life-threatening and is expected to recover. Authorities confirmed that the driver of the vehicle involved stayed at the scene and cooperated with emergency responders and investigators.
For Coach Chris Handy and the rest of the MGCCC soccer team, the loss of Perry is more than just the death of a talented player. “Landon quickly became an integral part of our team,” Coach Handy shared in a heartfelt message. “His energy, dedication, and positivity were felt by everyone. He wasn’t just a player; he was a leader in the locker room and on the field.” Perry’s teammates echoed these sentiments, remembering him not only for his athleticism but for the respect and kindness he showed to everyone around him.
The news of Perry’s passing has sent waves of sorrow through the soccer community, with tributes pouring in from former teammates, coaches, and classmates. Perry’s legacy, while cut tragically short, will live on in the memories of those who knew him — not just as a gifted athlete, but as a young man whose spirit and character left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of crossing his path. His story serves as a reminder that, in sports and life, no future is ever certain, and every moment counts.