First African-American commander of N.C. Highway Patrol dies

RALEIGH (WTVD) -- A pioneering lawman - the first African-American commander of North Carolina's Highway Patrol - is dead.

Retired Col. Richard Holden Sr. died on Thursday. He was 67 years old.

Holden was one of the first African-American state troopers, and rose through the ranks during his 35 year career with the Highway Patrol. He became commander of the Highway Patrol in 1999.

A public visitation will be held Tuesday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Lea Funeral Home in Raleigh.

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