Key officials of the Minnesota Vikings have released a series of deeply saddened statements following the unexpected death of player Khyree Jackson in a car accident. The footballer tragically passed away in a three-car collision in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, alongside his former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, and Isaiah Hazel, 23.
Ebbony Jackson, his mother, confirmed the heartbreaking news to TMZ early on a Saturday morning, recounting receiving the devastating call. Jackson and Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene by Maryland Police and Lytton later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
The Vikings’ owners, Mark and Zygi Wilf, along with head coach Kevin O’Connell, have all expressed their heartfelt condolences and paid tribute to Jackson, stating that the franchise is ‘devastated’.
The accident occurred around 3am ET on Saturday when Cori Clingman, driving a silver Infinity at high speed, attempted a lane change on Route 4. This action led to a collision with the Dodge Charger, driven by Hazel and carrying Jackson and Lytton. The impact caused the Dodge to hit another vehicle and then crash off the road, striking multiple trees before coming to a halt.
Clingman had two passengers in her vehicle, while the other driver of the Chevrolet was alone and uninjured. Maryland police suspect alcohol may have been a factor and have initiated an investigation into the fatal crash.
Hazel had played football at Maryland and Charlotte, while Lytton’s career included stints at Florida State and Penn State. Jackson’s untimely death occurred less than three months after he was drafted by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft.
