Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson and two of his former high school teammates died in a car crash early Saturday morning in Maryland, according to police and the team.
Jackson, aged 24, and Isaiah Hazel died at the crash site, while Anthony Lytton, Jr., aged 24, passed away at a hospital after the collision involving three vehicles in Prince George’s County, Maryland State Police reported. The incident occurred just after 3 a.m. when their vehicle was hit by another vehicle that was speeding and changing lanes.
The Vikings issued a statement expressing their deep sorrow over the tragedy and confirmed they have spoken with Jackson’s family.
“I am devastated by the loss of Khyree,” said Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. “As we got to know him during the pre-draft process, it was clear Khyree had ambitions both professionally and personally. His story was one of resilience as he worked towards becoming the best version of himself, not just for himself but for those who cared about him and looked up to him.”
Jackson, drafted by the Vikings in the fourth round in April, played two years at Alabama before finishing his college career with one season at Oregon. He was competing for a starting cornerback position at the team’s upcoming training camp in Eagan, Minnesota.
“This news has devastated me,” said Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell. “Khyree brought an infectious energy to our team and facility. His confidence and warm personality quickly endeared him to his teammates.”
Hazel played college football at Maryland and Charlotte, while Lytton played at Florida State and Penn State. The trio had previously won a state championship together at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School in Maryland, which honored them in a social media tribute.
