On July 6, 2024, the sports world was struck with devastating news: Khyree Jackson, a promising rookie cornerback for the Minnesota Vikings, lost his life in a tragic car accident in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Alongside him, two of his high school teammates, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., also perished in the crash.
The incident sent shockwaves through the NFL community, leaving fans, teammates, and coaches grappling with the loss of a talented athlete whose career was just beginning. This article delves into the life and legacy of Khyree Jackson, the details surrounding the accident, the legal developments that followed, and the ways in which his memory continues to be honored.
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Khyree Jackson was born on August 11, 1999, in Upper Marlboro, Maryland. From a young age, he displayed a natural aptitude for athletics, particularly football. Growing up in a tight-knit community, Jackson attended Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School, where he forged lifelong friendships with Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., both of whom would tragically share his fate. At Wise High School, Jackson emerged as a standout player, showcasing his skills as a defensive back with remarkable speed, agility, and football IQ.
After high school, Jackson’s journey to the NFL was anything but straightforward. He initially enrolled at Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, where he continued to hone his skills. His talent caught the attention of larger programs, leading him to transfer to Arizona Western College before landing at the University of Alabama in 2021.
At Alabama, Jackson played alongside future NFL players, including Dallas Turner, with whom he shared a close bond. In 2023, Jackson transferred to the University of Oregon, where he had a breakout season, earning first-team All-Pac-12 honors and solidifying his status as a top NFL prospect.
NFL Dreams Realized
In April 2024, Khyree Jackson’s dreams came true when he was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth round of the NFL Draft, with the 108th overall pick. At 24 years old, Jackson was poised to make an immediate impact on the Vikings’ roster. Coaches and teammates praised his infectious energy, work ethic, and potential to become a starting cornerback.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell described Jackson as someone who brought “contagious energy” to the team, while general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah noted his “joy” and “hard-working spirit” as reasons the Vikings were excited to draft him.
Jackson’s signing bonus was reported to be $827,148, a testament to the confidence the Vikings had in his abilities. He was expected to compete for a starting role opposite Pro Bowler Byron Murphy Jr., addressing a perceived weakness in the team’s secondary. Tragically, Jackson never had the opportunity to showcase his talents on the NFL stage.
The Tragic Accident
On the early morning of July 6, 2024, at approximately 3:15 a.m., a fatal three-car collision occurred on Maryland Route 4 in Prince George’s County. According to Maryland State Police, Isaiah Hazel was driving a Dodge Charger with Khyree Jackson in the front passenger seat and Anthony Lytton Jr. in the back. The trio was traveling north when their vehicle was struck by a silver Infiniti Q50 driven by Cori Clingman, a 24-year-old woman from Upper Marlboro.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Clingman was attempting to change lanes at a high rate of speed when her vehicle collided with the Dodge Charger. The impact caused the Charger to veer off the road and strike multiple tree stumps. Jackson and Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene, while Lytton was transported to a hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Clingman’s Infiniti also struck a Chevrolet Impala, but the driver of the Impala was uninjured and declined medical treatment. Clingman and her two passengers were unharmed.
The Aftermath
The crash left the Upper Marlboro community and the NFL in mourning. Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton were not just teammates but close friends who had grown up together, sharing dreams of success on and off the field. The tragedy was compounded by the fact that all three were in their early 20s, with bright futures ahead. Maryland State Police noted that alcohol was believed to be a factor in the crash, with early reports suggesting that Clingman may have been impaired at the time.
The totaled Dodge Charger, as shown in shocking photos released after the incident, underscored the severity of the collision. The images served as a stark reminder of the dangers of reckless driving and the fragility of life. The loss of three young men in a single moment sent ripples through their families, friends, and the broader football community.
Legal Developments: Charges Against Cori Clingman
On January 23, 2025, Prince George’s County State Attorney Aisha N. Braveboy announced that Cori Clingman had been arrested and charged with 13 counts in connection with the crash. These charges included grossly negligent vehicular manslaughter, criminally negligent vehicular manslaughter, negligent homicide, and driving under the influence (DUI). Clingman, who reportedly attended the same high school as Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton, was accused of traveling at a high rate of speed and attempting an unsafe lane change, which directly led to the fatal collision.
The following day, January 24, 2025, a grand jury in Prince George’s County indicted Clingman on these charges. As of the latest reports, she remained in custody pending further legal proceedings. The indictment marked a significant step in the pursuit of justice for the families of Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton, though it did little to ease the pain of their loss.
Community and Legal Response
The charges against Clingman sparked widespread discussion about road safety and the consequences of impaired driving. Prince George’s County officials emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of traffic laws and greater public awareness of the dangers of speeding and driving under the influence. The case also highlighted the devastating impact of such incidents on families and communities, with many calling for reforms to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
The Upper Marlboro community, where Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton were beloved figures, held a vigil to honor their memory. Tragically, this vigil was marred by a separate shooting incident on July 13, 2024, which resulted in one death and one injury, further compounding the community’s grief.
Honoring Khyree Jackson’s Legacy
The Minnesota Vikings, devastated by the loss of their rookie cornerback, took immediate steps to honor Jackson’s memory. The team announced that Jackson’s No. 31 would not be worn by any player during the 2024 season, and his locker at the TCO Performance Center in Eagan, Minnesota, would remain untouched. The Vikings also introduced “KJ” decals on players’ helmets and stenciling on practice fields to commemorate Jackson’s life. Coaches and staff were provided with pins bearing the same decal design.
In a heartfelt gesture, the Vikings committed to covering Jackson’s funeral expenses and paying his full $827,000 signing bonus to his estate. The team also planned a private memorial in Minnesota for players, coaches, and Jackson’s family, ensuring that his memory would remain a part of the organization.
Vikings running back Aaron Jones paid a particularly poignant tribute, placing flowers in Jackson’s locker before every game. Speaking to the Sunday Night Football crew on November 3, 2024, Jones shared, “I normally put flowers inside Khyree Jackson’s locker,” a ritual that became a weekly reminder of his teammate’s impact. Rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy also honored Jackson by taping over his own nameplate with “31, Jackson” during training camp.
Teammates and Coaches Reflect
Jackson’s brief time with the Vikings left a lasting impression on his teammates and coaches. Head coach Kevin O’Connell, who was on a summer vacation when he received the news of Jackson’s death, described himself as “absolutely crushed.” In an ESPN feature story, O’Connell said he “fell in love” with Jackson’s personality and potential, noting that the team would grieve together to honor his memory.
General manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah echoed these sentiments, highlighting Jackson’s ability to endear himself to a veteran team with his enthusiasm and confidence. “Between his joy, the way he attacked life and that hard-working spirit were why we were so excited to add him to this culture,” Adofo-Mensah said.
Rookie linebacker Dallas Turner, who played alongside Jackson at Alabama, shared a particularly close bond with him. Turner revealed that he spoke to Jackson “all the time” and felt his presence watching over him. During training camp, Turner was seen kneeling at a memorial set up for Jackson on the Vikings’ practice field, a moment that captured the depth of his grief.
Community and Family Support
The Jackson family, led by Khyree’s mother, Ebbony, found solace in the support of the Vikings organization and the broader football community. The team flew the Jacksons to Minnesota for a private commemoration, where they were moved by gestures such as the portrait of Khyree hanging next to Adofo-Mensah’s desk. Ebbony Jackson described the Vikings’ support as “so genuine,” noting that it helped her family cope with their loss.
The University of Oregon, where Jackson played his final college season, also paid tribute to him. The Ducks community mourned the loss of a player who had made a significant impact in just one year, earning accolades for his on-field performance and leadership. Maryland football head coach Mike Locksley, who spoke at a vigil for Jackson and Lytton, reflected on the profound loss felt by the Upper Marlboro community.
The Broader Impact: Road Safety and NFL Culture
The tragic deaths of Khyree Jackson, Isaiah Hazel, and Anthony Lytton Jr. have reignited conversations about road safety, particularly the dangers of speeding and driving under the influence. Advocacy groups and local officials in Maryland have used the incident to push for stricter DUI laws and increased public education on safe driving practices. The case has also prompted discussions about the need for better infrastructure on roads like Maryland Route 4, where high-speed crashes are not uncommon.
NFL’s Response to Tragedy
The NFL has a history of rallying around players and families in times of tragedy, and Jackson’s death was no exception. The Vikings’ commitment to honoring Jackson reflects a broader trend in the league of using platforms and resources to support grieving communities. The “KJ” patches and other tributes have served as a reminder of the human side of professional sports, where athletes are not just competitors but also friends, sons, and community members.
The loss of Jackson also highlighted the fragility of NFL careers, particularly for rookies who are just beginning their journeys. His teammates’ tributes, from Aaron Jones’s flowers to Dallas Turner’s prayers, underscore the bonds formed in the locker room and the profound impact of losing a teammate.
Looking Forward: Khyree Jackson’s Enduring Legacy
Khyree Jackson’s life was cut short before he could fully realize his potential, but his legacy endures through the memories of those who knew him and the tributes of those who admired him. The Minnesota Vikings, the University of Oregon, and the Upper Marlboro community continue to honor his memory in meaningful ways, ensuring that his spirit lives on.
For fans searching for answers on YouTube and beyond, Jackson’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and tragedy. His journey from a small town in Maryland to the cusp of NFL stardom serves as an inspiration, while his untimely death serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of road safety. As the legal proceedings against Cori Clingman unfold, the hope is that justice will provide some measure of closure for the families of Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton.
In the words of Vikings coach Kevin O’Connell, “We’re going to do it in the way that best honors Khyree and his family.” Through helmet patches, untouched lockers, and heartfelt tributes, the NFL community is ensuring that Khyree Jackson’s name will not be forgotten.
FAQs
Who was responsible for the crash?
Cori Clingman was identified as the driver of the Infiniti Q50 that collided with the vehicle carrying Jackson and his friends. Investigations revealed that she was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. In January 2025, Clingman was indicted on 13 counts, including vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence. If convicted, she faces up to 30 years in prison.
What was the public reaction to his death?
Jackson’s untimely death elicited an outpouring of grief and tributes from the football community and fans. The Minnesota Vikings expressed deep sorrow and offered support to his family and teammates. A candlelight vigil was held at Wise High School, and numerous tributes highlighted his character and potential as both a player and person.
Why are people searching for “Khyree Jackson died”?
Sometimes, rumors or misinformation can spread rapidly online, especially on platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. These rumors might stem from mistaken identity, confusion with another person, or sensationalized content. Fans and followers search to confirm the truth.
Why are people searching for “Khyree Jackson died”?
Sometimes, rumors or misinformation can spread rapidly online, especially on platforms like Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube. These rumors might stem from mistaken identity, confusion with another person, or sensationalized content. Fans and followers search to confirm the truth.
In Summary
The tragic death of Khyree Jackson, alongside his high school teammates Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., on July 6, 2024, remains a heartbreaking chapter in the NFL and Upper Marlboro communities. Jackson, a 24-year-old rookie cornerback for the Minnesota Vikings, was on the cusp of a promising career, bringing infectious energy and undeniable talent to the field.
His loss, compounded by the deaths of two close friends, has left an indelible mark on those who knew him and the fans who were eager to witness his rise. The legal proceedings against Cori Clingman, charged with 13 counts including vehicular manslaughter and DUI, underscore the devastating consequences of reckless driving and the urgent need for road safety reforms.
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