Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, 24, and two former college football players, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., were killed in a three-car crash overnight, according to Maryland State Police.
Incident Details:
- The crash occurred at 3:14 a.m. Saturday.
- Jackson and Hazel were in a Dodge Charger driven by Hazel.
- An Infiniti Q50, attempting a high-speed lane change, struck the Charger.
- The Charger left the road and hit multiple tree stumps.
- Jackson and Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene.
- Lytton was transported to a hospital but was later pronounced dead.
Survivors and Investigation:
- The driver of the Infiniti Q50 and her two passengers were not injured.
- The driver of the third vehicle involved was also unharmed.
- Investigators believe alcohol may have been a factor; charges are pending.
Background on the Victims:
- Khyree Jackson: Selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of this year’s draft. He was considered a strong contender to start at cornerback. Jackson played his final college season at Oregon, earning all-Pac-12 first-team honors. Before Oregon, he played two seasons at Alabama.
- Isaiah Hazel: 23, played at Maryland and Charlotte.
- Anthony Lytton Jr.: 24, played at Florida State and Penn State.
Reactions and Tributes:
- The Vikings released a statement expressing their devastation and extending condolences to Jackson’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches.
- Oregon Ducks coach Dan Lanning paid tribute to Jackson on social media.
- Coaches from Maryland and Charlotte, as well as Penn State, mourned Hazel and Lytton’s deaths.
Personal Journey of Khyree Jackson:
- Jackson’s path to the NFL was challenging and inspiring. After graduating from Wise High School in Maryland in 2017 as a non-qualifier, he spent time at three junior colleges.
- He worked at a Harris Teeter grocery store and considered joining the NBA 2K league during his hiatus from football.
- Despite the setbacks, Jackson’s perseverance led him to Alabama in 2021 and eventually to the NFL.
- He shared his story with Minnesota reporters, emphasizing that his journey taught him valuable lessons in perseverance and character.
Quotes from Vikings Coach Kevin O’Connell:
- “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.”
Jackson’s story of resilience and determination resonated with many. His ability to overcome obstacles and his journey from the bottom to the top of college football served as an inspiration to all who knew him.
Final Thoughts:
- Jackson’s tragic death is a significant loss to the Vikings and the broader football community. His story and spirit will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.