Vikings rookie CB Khyree Jackson dies in car accident in Maryland

On Saturday, the Minnesota Vikings announced that rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson died overnight following a car accident.

He was 24. 

According to Maryland State Police, the accident took place in Prince George’s County, Maryland; Jackson and the 23-year-old Isaiah Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene, while Anthony Lytton, Jr, 24, was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital.

Jackson, Lytton, and Hazel were all high school teammates. Lytton played college football at Florida State and Penn State, while Hazel played at Maryland and Charlotte.

According to police, all three victims were occupants of a maroon Dodge Charger involved in the crash. Hazel was the driver.  Jackson was the front-seat passenger, and Lytton was seated in the rear of the vehicle. 

This was a three-car accident, and the preliminary investigation indicates the driver of the silver Infiniti was traveling northbound. Investigators believe the driver attempted to change lanes while driving at a high rate of speed when it struck the Dodge Charger and then the Chevrolet Impala. The Charger subsequently traveled off the right side of the roadway and struck multiple tree stumps, where the vehicle came to rest.

Investigators believe alcohol may have been a contributing circumstance in the crash, and charges are pending the investigation and consultation with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office. 

The Vikings issued a statement on the death of Jackson:

“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.”

 Statement from Minnesota Vikings ownership:

“We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree’s passing. Khyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player, and it was clear he was dedicated to being a tremendous person who made a positive difference in people’s lives. We are thinking about Khyree’s family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss.’ – Owners Mark & Zygi Wilf.

Head 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. I am at a loss for words. My heart goes out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.” – Head Coach Kevin O’Connell.

General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah

“I am heartbroken by the loss of Khyree. As we got to know him throughout the pre-draft process, it was clear the goals Khyree wanted to accomplish both professionally and personally. His story was one of resilience. He was taking steps to become the best version of himself, not just for him, but for those who cared about and looked up to him. Khyree’s personality captured every room he was in. I’m devastated that his life and everything he had in front of him has been cut short. My thoughts are with Khyree’s family and friends, those who played with and coached him in college, and his teammates and coaches here at the Vikings.” – General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

Jackson was selected in the fourth round by the Vikings out of Oregon in this year’s draft.