Poppy Bilderbeck
Tributes are pouring in online for Minnesota Vikings cornerback Khyree Jackson.
Yesterday (July 6), 24-year-old Khyree Jackson - who was in his first season playing for NFL team the Minnesota Vikings - and two of his friends, Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr, 24, were involved in a car collision in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, at around 3:15am.
The trio had been high school teammates and were traveling in a maroon Dodge Charger when it became involved in a collision with two other cars.
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State police report their vehicle was hit by a silver Infiniti which was 'driving at a high rate of speed' and had 'attempted to change lanes'.
The Infiniti is reported as having hit the Charger, before hitting a Chevrolet Impala.
Those in the other vehicles are reported as having been uninjured.
According to a news release from Maryland State Police, Hazel and Jackson were found passed away at the scene and Lytton passed away after being transported to hospital.
Tributes have since been pouring in online for Jackson, Hazel and Lytton.
Head coach Kevin O'Connell said in a statement: "I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team.
"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 most 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 NFL said: "The NFL family is deeply saddened and devastated by the passing of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson.
"Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and everybody involved in this tragic accident."
Wise Athletics wrote: "The Dr. Henry A. Wise Athletic Department sends condolences to the families and mourns the loss of Khyree Jackson (State Champ 2016 c/o '17) Anthony Lytton, Jr. (AJ) (State Champ 2015,16,17 c/o '18) and Isaiah Hazel (State Champ 2015, 16, 17 c/o '19). #OnceAPumaAlwaysAPuma."
We are deeply saddened by the loss of Khyree Jackson, Anthony “AJ” Lytton Jr. and Isaiah Hazel, graduates of Wise High School. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to their families and friends during this difficult time. Their memories will forever remain in our hearts. pic.twitter.com/tKBY4uvXji
— City2CityDmv (@city2cityDmv) July 6, 2024
The incident is still being investigation by authorities, with Maryland State Police noting investigators 'believe alcohol may have been a contributing circumstance in the crash'.
The report resolves: "Charges are pending the investigation and consultation with the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office. The Maryland State Police Crash Team is leading the investigation."
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact The Compassionate Friends on (877) 969-0010.