Tragedy has struck the Minnesota Vikings family and the NFL world at large.
Before he had his chance to make his mark in the NFL, Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, along with two others lives that were cut short, were killed in a car crash Saturday morning in Prince George’s County, Maryland, according to Maryland State Police. Jackson was 24 years old.
Jackson was pronounced dead on the scene by emergency medical personnel, according to the MSP news release, following a three-car collision in Upper Marlboro. Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, were also killed in the crash.
All three of the deceased were travelling in a Dodge Charger that was hit by another car headed northbound on Route4/Pennsylvania Avenue, according to police. The initial investigation indicates that a silver Infiniti, driven by Cori Clingman, struck the Charger first and then a Chevrolet Impala after attempting to switch lanes at a high rate of speed. The Charger then careened off the side of the road and struck several tree stumps before coming to a rest, according to police.
Embed from Getty ImagesHazel, who was behind the wheel, was also pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. Lytton Jr. was transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center where he later succumbed to his injuries. All three victims of the crash occupied the Charger, with Hazel driving, Jackson in the front passenger seat and Lytton Jr. seated in the back.
Investigators believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor in the fatal crash. It remains under investigation.
“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident,” the team said in a statement. “While we work to gather more information, we have spoken to Khyree’s family and offered the support of the Minnesota Vikings. We have also communicated the news to Vikings players, coaches and staff and have offered counseling for those who need emotional support. Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”
Jackson was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft back in April. He spent two years at the University of Alabama playing under the great Nick Saban before playing his final collegiate season at the University of Oregon in 2023.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree’s passing,” Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf said in a statement. “Khyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player, and it was clear he was dedicated to being a tremendous person who made a positive difference in people’s lives. We are thinking about Khyree’s family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss.”
Jackson was able to display NFL promise during his senior season with the Oregon Ducks. In 12 games, he registered three interceptions, seven pass break-ups, two sacks and 34 total tackles, guiding him to an all-Pac-12 first-team selection.
“I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team,” head coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “His confidence and engaging personality immediately drew his teammates to him. In our short time together, it was evident Khyree was going to develop into a tremendous professional football player, but what was more impressive was his desire to become the best person he could be for his family and those around him. I am at a loss for words. My heart goes out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.”
