Vikings rookie CB Khyree Jackson, 24, among three killed in car crash

Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson and two others 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 in the front passenger seat of a Dodge Charger involved in a three-car accident in Upper Marlboro and was declared dead at the scene by emergency medical staff, as stated in the MSP news release. The accident also claimed the lives of 23-year-old Isaiah Hazel and 24-year-old Anthony Lytton Jr. The trio had previously been high school football teammates at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High in Maryland.

“The news of Khyree Jackson’s death in an overnight car accident has left us heartbroken,” stated the Vikings. “As we strive to collect more details, we have reached out to Khyree’s family, offering the assistance of the Minnesota Vikings. We have shared the unfortunate news with our players, coaches, and staff, and have made counseling available for those needing emotional support. Our thoughts are with Khyree’s loved ones, teammates, and coaches, as well as everyone affected by this devastating accident.”

According to the police, the three deceased were all passengers in the Charger that was hit by a silver Infiniti driving north on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue. The initial investigation suggests that the Infiniti, with Cori Clingman at the wheel, hit the Charger first before colliding with a Chevrolet Impala while attempting a high-speed lane change. After the impact, the Charger veered off the road, hitting several tree stumps before finally stopping, as per the release.

According to police, Hazel, the driver of the Charger, was declared dead at the scene. Lytton Jr., who was seated in the back, was taken to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center. There, hospital staff later pronounced him dead.

Investigators suspect that alcohol may have played a role in the deadly crash, which is still being investigated.

“The NFL community is profoundly distressed and shattered by the loss of Vikings newcomer Khyree Jackson,” expressed the league in a statement. “We extend our thoughts and sympathies to his family, dear ones and all those affected by this heartbreaking incident.”

The Vikings chose Jackson in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. After spending two years at the University of Alabama, he played his last season of college football at the University of Oregon in 2023.

During his senior season at Oregon, Jackson displayed significant NFL potential. He accumulated three interceptions, seven pass break-ups, two sacks, and 34 total tackles in 12 games, which led to his selection for the All-Pac-12 first team.

“This news has left me utterly devastated. Khyree had an infectious energy that permeated our facility and our team,” stated head coach Kevin O’Connell. “His self-assuredness and charismatic personality quickly endeared him to his teammates. Even though our time together was brief, it was clear that Khyree was on the path to becoming an exceptional professional football player. However, his ambition to be the best person possible for his family and those close to him was even more remarkable. I am speechless. My deepest sympathies go to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.”