Nationwide — Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson and two others tragically lost their lives in a car accident on Saturday morning in Prince George’s County, Maryland, as confirmed by Maryland State Police. Jackson, who was just 24 years old, was a front passenger in a Dodge Charger involved in a three-car collision in Upper Marlboro.Jackson 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, both of whom were high school football teammates of Jackson at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School in Maryland.
In a statement, the Minnesota Vikings expressed their devastation over Jackson’s death. “We are heartbroken by the news of Khyree Jackson’s passing in an overnight car accident,” the statement read. “We have reached out to Khyree’s family to offer support and have communicated with our players, coaches, and staff, providing counseling services for those affected. Our deepest sympathies are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches, as well as the other victims of this tragic incident.”
According to police reports, the Charger carrying the three men was struck by a silver Infiniti traveling northbound on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue. Preliminary investigations suggest the Infiniti, driven by Cori Clingman, collided with the Charger and then a Chevrolet Impala while attempting to change lanes at high speed. The impact caused the Charger to veer off the road, striking multiple tree stumps before coming to a halt.
Hazel, the driver of the Charger, was also pronounced dead at the scene, while Lytton Jr., who was in the back seat, was transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center, where he later died. Investigators suspect that alcohol may have played a role in the fatal crash, which remains under investigation.
The NFL expressed its sorrow over the loss, stating, “The NFL family is deeply saddened and devastated by the passing of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson. Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones, and everyone involved in this tragic accident.”
Selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Jackson showcased his potential during his senior season at the University of Oregon in 2023. In 12 games, he recorded three interceptions, seven pass break-ups, two sacks, and 34 total tackles, earning an All-Pac-12 first-team selection.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell also shared his grief, saying, “I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team. 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. My heart goes out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches.”
The Minnesota Vikings organization issued a statement saying the following: “We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident. 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.”