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Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, 24, was among three victims killed in a car crash in Maryland on July 6, 2024. The incident has sent shockwaves through the NFL community and beyond, leaving many to mourn the loss of a promising young athlete.
The accident occurred in Prince George's County around 3:15 a.m. when another driver, identified as Cori Clingman, 23, attempted to change lanes at high speed. Clingman's vehicle struck the car carrying Jackson and two others, Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24. The impact caused their vehicle to veer off the road and collide with multiple tree stumps.
Maryland State Police reported that Hazel, who was driving, and Jackson, seated in the front passenger seat, were pronounced dead at the scene. Lytton, the backseat passenger, was rushed to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center but sadly succumbed to his injuries. Investigators suspect alcohol may have played a role in the crash, and charges are pending.
The NFL community has been left reeling from this tragic loss. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell expressed his devastation, describing Jackson as a player with "contagious energy" and "engaging personality." The Vikings organization released a statement, extending their thoughts to Jackson's family, friends, teammates, and coaches, as well as the other victims of the accident.
Jackson, a fourth-round NFL draft pick in April 2024, had shown immense promise both on and off the field. Coach O'Connell noted that beyond his potential as a professional football player, Jackson was committed to personal growth and positively impacting those around him. This sentiment was echoed by Vikings General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, who praised Jackson's dedication to self-improvement and his ability to light up any room.
The tragedy has also deeply affected the college football community. Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton all played football for Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School in Prince George's County before pursuing collegiate careers at different institutions. Jackson had been a standout cornerback for the Oregon Ducks, while Hazel played for the University of Maryland and UNC Charlotte, and Lytton had been part of the Penn State football program.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the football world and beyond mourn the loss of these young lives. The accident serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. The legacy of Khyree Jackson and his fellow victims will undoubtedly live on through the memories of those who knew them and the impact they made in their short but meaningful lives.
