Minnesota Vikings’ rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson died in a car crash that claimed the lives of three people in Maryland over the weekend.
Jackson, 24, and two other victims, identified by Maryland State Police as Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, were driving in Prince George’s County around 3:15 a.m. on July 6, when another driver hit their car, state police said in a statement.
The driver, who police identified as Cori Clingman, 23, was attempting to change lanes "at a high rate of speed" when she struck the trio's car as well as another vehicle on the road, Maryland police said.
The car, which was driven by Hazel with Jackson in the front passenger seat and Lytton in the back, veered off the road and "struck multiple tree stumps."
Hazel and Jackson were pronounced dead at the scene, police said. Lytton was transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center where he was later pronounced dead.
In light of Jackson's death, the Vikings released a statement that said the team is "devastated" by what happened to the athlete, who was their fourth-round NFL draft pick in April.
"Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident," the team said.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell also shared a statement.
"I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team," he said. "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," he added. "My heart goes out to Khyree's family, friends, teammates and coaches."
Jackson, Hazel and Lytton all played football for Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School in Prince George’s County, according to NBC Washington.
Before being drafted by the Vikings, Jackson played for the Oregon Ducks. Hazel played for the University of Maryland and the UNC Charlotte 49ers, and Lytton was a former Penn State football cornerback.
"The Penn State Football Family mourns the loss of former Nittany Lion, A.J. Lytton. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family, friends, high school & all involved in the tragedy," the official X account for the team shared.
Clingman and the other driver and passengers involved in the crash were uninjured, police said. Investigators said alcohol may have been a contributing circumstance in the crash and charges are pending.
