In a tragic incident that has left the Minnesota Vikings and the NFL community in mourning, rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, aged 24, was among three individuals killed in a high-speed car crash in Maryland. The accident, which occurred early Saturday morning in Prince George’s County, also claimed the lives of Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton, 24. This devastating news has deeply affected Jackson’s teammates, coaches, and fans, who remember him for his promising future and vibrant personality.
The Accident Details
The fatal crash happened just before 3:15 a.m. when a silver Infiniti traveling northbound on Route 4 attempted to change lanes at a high speed. The vehicle, driven by 23-year-old Cori Clingman, collided with the maroon Dodge Charger in which Jackson was a passenger. The Charger, driven by Hazel, lost control and veered off the road, hitting multiple tree stumps before coming to a halt. Jackson and Hazel were declared dead at the spot, and Lytton was transferred to a neighbouring hospital, where he eventually passed away from his wounds.
Immediate Aftermath and Investigations
According to police reports, Clingman and the two other passengers in the Infiniti escaped uninjured, as did the driver of a Chevrolet Impala involved in the crash. The authorities are investigating the incident and suspect that alcohol might have played a role in the crash, with charges pending against Clingman.
Reactions from the Minnesota Vikings and NFL Community
The Minnesota Vikings organization expressed their profound sorrow and shock at the loss of Khyree Jackson. Head coach Kevin O’Connell conveyed his deep grief, stating, “Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team. His teammates gravitated towards him right away because of his self-assurance and charisma. Even though Khyree and I didn’t have much time together, it was clear from the beginning that he would grow into a fantastic professional football player. Even more impressive was his drive to improve himself and the people around him.
The Vikings, in their official statement, shared, “Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.” Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf also added, “Khyree had an exceptionally bright future ahead of him as a player, and it was evident he was determined to being a terrific person who made a positive difference in people’s lives.”
Khyree Jackson’s Background and Career
Khyree Jackson, originally from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, was a standout cornerback at the University of Oregon. He was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of the NFL Draft in April. Jackson’s journey from Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School to the NFL was marked by his talent and dedication, which earned him admiration from peers and coaches alike.
Tributes from the Football Community
The outpouring of tributes continued throughout the weekend, with Jackson’s college coach, Dan Lanning, expressing his heartbreak on social media: “RIP Khyree… Love you @Real_Khyree. at a loss for words. I will miss your smile. Great player, better person.”
The NFL also released a statement mourning the loss of Jackson: “The NFL family is deeply saddened and devastated by the passing of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson.His family, loved ones, and everyone else involved in this awful event are in our thoughts and prayers.”
Remembering Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton
The tragedy also claimed the lives of two other promising young men. Isaiah Hazel, who was driving the Charger, was a former defensive back at the University of Maryland and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Anthony Lytton, the other passenger, had played as a defensive back at Florida State University and Pennsylvania State University.
Both Hazel and Lytton were known for their athletic prowess and the bright futures that lay ahead of them. Their respective schools and coaches expressed their grief and condolences, highlighting the significant loss to their communities.
The Impact on the Minnesota Vikings and NFL Community
The sudden and tragic loss of Khyree Jackson, along with Hazel and Lytton, has left an indelible mark on the Minnesota Vikings and the broader NFL community. General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah reflected on Jackson’s potential and character, stating, “Khyree was taking steps to become the best version of himself, and his personality captured every room he was in.That his life and everything that he had ahead of him were taken so soon breaks my heart.”
Conclusion
The tragic accident that claimed the lives of Khyree Jackson, Isaiah Hazel, and Anthony Lytton serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life. The Minnesota Vikings, the NFL, and the broader football community mourn the loss of these young men who had so much potential and life ahead of them. As investigations continue, the thoughts and prayers of many are with the families and friends of the victims during this incredibly difficult time.