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“We will try to get through this”



Kyree Jackson, the late Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback who died in a traffic accident on Saturday, is being honored by his family and former coaches.

The football player tragically died in a three-car crash in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, along with his former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr. (24) and Isaiah Hazel (23).

Jackson and Hazel were both pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical services, Maryland police said. Lytton was taken to the hospital, where he later died.

Pictures of the wreckage have been released, showing a total loss to a Dodge Charger with the rear axle separated from the rest of the car.

As family members arrived on the scene to assess the damage, Jackson’s grandfather, Anthony Jackson, spoke with NBC 4 Washington.

Khyree Jackson’s grandfather, Anthony Jackson
Khyree Jackson’s former trainer Dalawn Parrish

“He always had high standards,” Jackson said, adding that his grandson was “doing the best he could in life and with his family.”

The grandfather added that the family will “try to get through this as best as we can.”

Dalawn Parrish, who coached the three victims at Henry Wise High School, said the former teammates remained friends even after graduation.

“Isaiah had an infectious, contagious attitude. He was exceptional. Everyone loved being around him,” he said. “AJ A phenomenal athlete. He could do anything he wanted. Khyree, his confidence was unbelievable.”

The Vikings, their owners Mark and Zygi Wilf and head coach Kevin O’Connell all expressed their heartfelt condolences to Jackson. The franchise said it was “devastated.”

The team’s statement reads: “We are devastated to hear of the death of Khyree Jackson as a result of a car accident overnight.”

“While we work to gather more information, we have spoken with Khyree’s family and offered her the support of the Minnesota Vikings.”

“We have also communicated the news to Vikings players, coaches and staff and offered counseling for those who need emotional support.”

Pictures showed the Dodge Charger in which Jackson and his friends were torn in half
Minnesota picked Jackson with the 108th pick in the fourth round of the 2024 draft

“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”

Owners Mark and Zygi Wilf added: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree’s death.”

“Khyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player and it was clear that he was determined to be an extraordinary person who made a positive impact on the lives of others.

“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings after this devastating loss.”