Maryland football coach says three stars killed in crash had “a bond and friendship”

BALTIMORE – A high school football coach and a Maryland community are mourning the deaths of three star football players who were involved in a car crash early Saturday.

Khyree Jackson was drafted three months ago by the Minnesota Vikings of the NFLIsaiah Hazel played college football at Maryland and Charlotte, and Anthony Lytton Jr. played at Florida State and Penn State.

They were all friends and teammates at Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

“They had a wonderful relationship,” Wise High School coach DaLawn Parrish told WJZ. “It went beyond football. It was a bond and a friendship. We’ll never forget who they were.”

The three were traveling in a Dodge Charger around 3 a.m. Saturday when they were struck by a car and veered off the road on Route 4 in Prince George’s County.

Maryland State Police report that 23-year-old Cori Clingman was changing lanes heading east and collided with her car, causing her to strike several trees. Police say alcohol may have played a role.

“You get the information as it comes, but at the end of the day you know that unfortunately they are no longer with us,” Parrish said. “It’s a bitter pill to swallow.”

Maryland Governor Wes Moore shared his reaction to the crash.

“Maryland is heartbroken this morning over the loss of @real_khyree,” Moore said on X, formerly Twitter. “A graduate of Wise High School and NFL draft pick, Khyree was a true talent who touched so many lives. We mourn his loss and the two other souls lost in this crash.”

Former Baltimore Ravens wide receiver and WJZ contributor Torrey Smith also sent a message.

“Rest in peace, Khyree, Isaiah and Anthony,” Smith said on social media. “Prayers for their families, friends and the Wise community.”

The NFL said it was “deeply saddened and shocked by the death of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson.”

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

The accident is under investigation and charges have been filed against Clingman.