Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson killed in car crash

Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson and two others were killed in a car crash in Prince George’s County, Maryland, Saturday morning, according to Maryland State Police. Jackson was 24 years old.

Jackson, who was a passenger in a Dodge Charger involved in a three-car crash in Upper Marlboro, was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency responders, according to the MSP news release. Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, also died in the crash. The three were football teammates at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High in Maryland.

“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car crash,” the Vikings said in a statement. “While we work to gather more information, we have spoken with Khyree’s family and offered him the support of the Minnesota Vikings. We have also shared the news with Vikings players, coaches and staff and 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.”

All three dead people were traveling in the Charger, according to police, which was struck by a silver Infiniti traveling north on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue. The preliminary investigation indicates that the Infiniti, driven by Cori Clingman, struck first the Charger and then a Chevrolet Impala after attempting to change lanes at a high rate of speed. The Charger then veered off the road and struck several tree stumps before coming to a stop, the news release said.

Hazel, who was driving the Charger, was also pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. Lytton Jr., who was in the back seat, was taken to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center, where hospital staff later pronounced him dead.

Investigators believe that alcohol may have played a role in the fatal accident. The accident is still under investigation.

“The NFL family is deeply saddened and shocked by the passing of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson,” the league said in a statement. “Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and all those affected by this tragic accident.”

Jackson was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He spent two years at the University of Alabama before playing his final college season at the University of Oregon in 2023.

Jackson showed NFL promise in his final season at Oregon, collecting three interceptions, seven pass breakups, two sacks and 34 total tackles in 12 games, earning him a first-team All-Pac-12 selection.

“I am absolutely devastated by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and team,” head coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “His confidence and engaging personality immediately attracted his teammates. In our short time together, it was obvious that Khyree would develop into a great professional football player, but even 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 condolences go out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.”

Story source: Michael Baca of NFL Network