UPPER MARLBORO, Md. – Khyree Jackson, a recent NFL draft pick for the Minnesota Vikings, and two former high school teammates tragically lost their lives on Saturday in a car crash in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. Jackson, aged 24, was a front-seat passenger in a Dodge Charger, with Isaiah Hazel behind the wheel. Anthony Lytton Jr. was also in the vehicle. All three were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to a statement from the Maryland state police, the fatal crash involved three vehicles. Initial investigations suggest that a silver Infiniti, traveling at a high speed, attempted to change lanes. The Infiniti first collided with the Dodge Charger, in which Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton were traveling, before also striking a Chevrolet Impala. The Charger veered off the road, hitting several tree stumps.
Authorities believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor in the crash, and charges are pending while the investigation continues. State police are working in consultation with the county state’s attorney’s office.
Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton were teammates at Henry A. Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, according to a post from the school’s athletic department. Hazel played collegiately at Maryland and Charlotte, while Lytton had been a part of teams at Florida State, Penn State, and Bowie State.
The news of the tragic accident has deeply saddened the Minnesota Vikings organization, who had drafted Jackson in the fourth round from the University of Oregon in April. Owners Mark and Zygi Wilf offered their condolences, highlighting Jackson’s bright future both as a football player and as a person making a positive difference in the lives of others. The team has reached out to Jackson’s family to provide support, and they have informed his teammates, coaches, and staff of the devastating situation.
During his time at the University of Oregon, Jackson was recognized as a first-team All-Pac 12 player in 2023. Prior to that, he had played at the University of Alabama, appearing in 21 games and making 14 total tackles. His first career start for the Crimson Tide was in the 2022 College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Georgia Bulldogs.
The devastating car crash has left a void in the football community, where Jackson’s promising career has been cut tragically short. The investigation into the incident continues as the state police work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.