Minnesota Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson killed in Maryland car crash

Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, along with two former college football players, tragically died in a car accident overnight, as reported by Maryland State Police. Jackson was 24 years old.

The fatal crash involved three vehicles and occurred at 3:14 a.m. on Saturday in Prince George's County, according to police. The other victims, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., were high school teammates of Jackson.

Police stated that Hazel was driving a Dodge Charger with Jackson as a passenger when an Infiniti Q50, attempting a high-speed lane change, collided with their vehicle. The Charger veered off the road and crashed into several tree stumps.

Jackson and Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene, while Lytton was taken to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead by medical staff.

The driver of the Infiniti Q50, along with her two passengers and the driver of the third vehicle involved, were not injured. Police suspect that alcohol may have been a factor in the crash and mentioned that charges are pending.

Hazel, 23, had played for Maryland and Charlotte, while Lytton, 24, had played for Florida State and Penn State.

The crash was initiated when a silver Infiniti traveling northbound on Route 4 attempted a high-speed lane change, striking the Charger and subsequently a Chevrolet Impala. The impact forced the Charger off the road, causing it to hit multiple tree stumps.

Jackson was selected by the Vikings in the fourth round of this year’s draft and was seen as a potential starter at cornerback.

"We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson's death following an overnight car accident," the Vikings said in a statement. "Our thoughts are with Khyree's family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident."

He was an all-Pac-12 first-team selection for Oregon in 2023 and had previously played two seasons at Alabama under coach Nick Saban. Jackson had once quit football after high school but made a comeback at a community college before advancing to the Division I level.

"I am absolutely crushed by this news," Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said in a statement. "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."