July 6 (UPI) — Khyree Jackson, who was drafted in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft in April by the Minnesota Vikings, was among three men killed in a three-car crash in their hometown of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, early Saturday.
Jackson, 24, and two of his high school teammates at Wise High School were killed when their Dodge Charger was struck by another car, veered off northbound Route 4 near Presidential Parkway and struck several trees. The crash was reported at 3:14 a.m., according to The Washington Post.
Jackson played cornerback at Oregon in 2023 after two seasons at Alabama. He was an All-Pac-12 Conference First Team selection in his lone season with the Ducks.
“We mourn the loss of Khyree Jackson and all of those lost in this tragic accident. We are thinking of Khyree’s family, friends, and teammates during this difficult time, and he will forever be in our hearts. Rest in peace, Khyree,” an Oregon Football social media post says.
Also killed in the crash were Anthony Lytton, Jr., 24, and Isaiah Hazel, 23.
Lytton played college football at Florida State and Penn State, and Hazel played at Maryland and Charlotte.
The driver of the Infinity, a woman, and her two passengers were not injured. The driver of the other car was not hurt.
State police investigators believe alcohol may have been a contributing circumstance in the crash.
Jackson was considered a contender for starting 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.”
“Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team,” Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “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.”
The Vikings’ training camp begins July 27 and ends Aug. 8.
