Tragic Car Crash Claims the Life of Vikings Rookie Cornerback Khyree Jackson, 24

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, along with two others, tragically lost their lives in a car crash on Saturday morning. The incident occurred in Prince George’s County, Maryland, as confirmed by Maryland State Police. Jackson was just 24 years old.

Jackson was the front passenger in a Dodge Charger involved in a three-car collision in Upper Marlboro. According to a Maryland State Police news release, he was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical personnel. The crash also claimed the lives of Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, who were high school football teammates with Jackson at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High in Maryland.

“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident,” the Vikings said in an official 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.”

The crash involved the Charger being struck by a silver Infiniti traveling northbound on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue. Preliminary investigations suggest the Infiniti, driven by Cori Clingman, first struck the Charger before colliding with a Chevrolet Impala while attempting to change lanes at high speed. This caused the Charger to veer off the road and crash into multiple tree stumps before coming to a halt, according to the police report.

Isaiah Hazel, who was driving the Charger, was also pronounced dead at the scene. Anthony Lytton Jr., seated in the rear of the vehicle, was transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center, where he was later declared dead by hospital personnel.

Investigators suspect that alcohol may have played a role in the fatal accident, though the investigation remains ongoing.

“The NFL family is deeply saddened and devastated 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 everybody involved in this tragic accident.”

Jackson was drafted by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He initially played at the University of Alabama before transferring to the University of Oregon for his final collegiate season in 2023. Jackson demonstrated significant potential during his senior year at Oregon, playing in 12 games and recording three interceptions, seven pass break-ups, two sacks, and 34 total tackles, earning him an All-Pac-12 first-team selection.

Reflecting on the tragedy, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed his deep sorrow. “I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team,” 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.”

The sudden loss of Khyree Jackson has sent shockwaves through the NFL community and beyond. As the investigation continues, the Minnesota Vikings, the NFL, and fans are left mourning the loss of a promising young athlete whose career and life were tragically cut short.

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