Vikings pick Khyree Jackson dies aged 24: what happened?

In the early hours of a Maryland morning, a collision on Route 4 in Prince George’s County brought a sudden and tragic end to the life of Khyree Jackson, a young and promising athlete recently picked by the Vikings, alongside other victims.

Khyree Jackson one of those killed in car accident

At approximately 3:14 a.m., Maryland State Police were called to the scene of a multi-vehicle crash involving a maroon Dodge Charger, a silver Infiniti Q50, and a silver Chevrolet Impala. The crash occurred northbound near Presidential Parkway. According to the initial investigation, Cori Clingman, driving the Infiniti at high speed, allegedly switched lanes abruptly, colliding first with the Dodge Charger and then the Chevrolet Impala. The impact sent the Charger veering off the road where it struck multiple tree stumps before coming to a halt.

Adam Schefter reported the news on X (formerly Twitter), with further information on the accident being shared by Kevin Seifert.

The violent collision claimed the lives of three young men: Isaiah Hazel, Anthony Lytton Jr., as well as Jackson. Hazel, identified as the driver of the Charger, and Jackson, a front seat passenger, were pronounced dead at the scene. Lytton succumbed to his injuries after being transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center. Remarkably, other individuals involved in the accident, including Clingman and her passengers, as well as the driver of the Impala, reported no injuries.

Vikings respond to tragic deaths

Following the news, there was an outpouring of messages on social media, including the following statement from Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, general manager of the Minnesota Vikings.

‘I am heartbroken by the loss of Khyree. As we got to know him throughout the pre-draft process, it was clear the goals Khyree wanted to accomplish both professionally and personally. His story was one of resilience. He was taking steps to become the best version of himself not just for him, but for those who cared about and looked up to him. Khyree’s personality captured every room he was in.

‘I’m devastated that his life and everything he had in front of him has been cut short. My thoughts are with Khyree’s family and friends, those who played with and coached him in college, and his teammates and coaches here at the Vikings.’

Maryland State Police, with assistance from the Department of Transportation, are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Early reports suggest that excessive speed and potential alcohol use might have been contributing factors. Charges are pending as investigators consult with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office to determine the appropriate course of action.