Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson was killed in a automotive accident in his hometown of Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
The fatal accident occurred shortly after 3:14 a.m. on Saturday in Prince George's County, based on the Maryland State Policeand Jackson was pronounced dead on the scene.
Jackson, 24, was within the passenger seat of a Dodge Charger that was struck by an Infiniti Q50 attempting to vary lanes at a high rate of speed, police said. The impact caused the Dodge to veer off the fitting side of the road and strike tree stumps.
Jackson's friends Isaiah Hazel (23) and Anthony Lytton Jr. (24) were also killed within the accident. Hazel, the motive force of the Dodge, was pronounced dead on the scene of the accident, Lytton was pronounced dead on the hospital.
The driver of the Infiniti was unhurt, as were the occupants of one other automotive involved within the accident. Preliminary investigations indicate that alcohol can have played a job within the fatal accident. Charges are pending.
Hazel played college football at Maryland and Charlotte, and Lytton played at Florida State and Penn State. The three won state championships together at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School in Maryland, based on On3.com.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree's passing,” Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf said in a press release. “Khyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player and it was clear that he was committed to being a great human being who made a positive impact on people's lives.”
Jackson was chosen by the Vikings within the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft – one other highlight on An incredible journey This testified to his resilience as a human being.
After quitting football as an adolescent, he returned home and worked at a food market before eventually returning to the sport he loved. From there, he steadily worked his way up the ranks, eventually landing at the highest level with the Vikings.
“I am absolutely devastated by this news,” Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said in a press release. “Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team. His confidence and engaging personality immediately attracted his teammates. In our short time together, it was clear that Khyree would develop into a great professional football player, but even 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 condolences go out to Khyree's family, friends, teammates and coaches.”
Jackson's winding college profession included stops at Arizona Western College, Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, East Mississippi Community College, the University of Alabama and eventually the University of Oregon. He finished last season with 34 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 interceptions and seven pass breakups and was named to the All-Pac-12 first team.
Jackson's infectious demeanor attracted the Vikings throughout the pre-draft process, ultimately resulting in them choosing him with the No. 108 pick.
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