New images have shown the vehicle that Minnesota Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson had been traveling in when he was tragically killed in a high-speed crash.
The three-car collision that claimed the life of the fourth-round NFL Draft pick Jackson is said to have taken place when 23-year-old Cori Clingman attempted to change lanes at high speeds and struck the vehicle. Investigators noted that alcohol could have been a “contributing circumstance in the crash.”
The crash happened in Jackson’s hometown of Upper Marlboro, Maryland, with his mother receiving a harrowing phone call just minutes later to notify her of her son’s passing.
Jackson, along with close friends, the driver of the Dodge, Isaiah Hazel and backseat passenger, Anthony Lytton Jr were heading northbound in the passenger seat of a maroon Dodge Charger near Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue.
“Maryland State Police are investigating a fatal crash that claimed three lives this morning in Prince George’s County…” a statement from police read. “Investigators believe Clingman attempted to change lanes while driving at a high rate of speed when she struck the Dodge Charger and then struck the Chevrolet Impala. The Charger subsequently traveled off of the right side of the roadway and struck multiple tree stumps where the vehicle came to rest.”
A picture has emerged of the completely wrecked Dodge Charger that was carrying Minnesota Vikings player Khyree Jackson and two others when they tragically died in a car crash.
Jackson, 24, was killed along with former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, and Isaiah Hazel, 23, in a three-car accident in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
His mother, Ebbony Jackson, confirmed the news to TMZ on Saturday, saying she received a call about his death in the early hours of Saturday morning.
Jackson and Hazel were both pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical services, Maryland Police said. Meanwhile, Lytton was transported to hospital where he later died.
Images show the completely disfigured and squashed Charger being taken away from the scene by a tow truck. The flattened vehicle appears to have had its back part completely torn off.
The accident occurred at around 3am ET Saturday when a woman, identified as Cori Clingman, driving a silver Infinity attempted to change lanes on Route 4 at a high speed, police believe.
She struck the Dodge Charger, driven by Hazel and carrying Jackson and Lytton, which collided with another vehicle causing the Dodge to careen off the road, hitting multiple tree stops before eventually coming to a stop.
Clingman had two other passengers in her vehicle at the time of the crash, while the other driver was the only occupant of his Chevrolet. No one else was injured in the accident.
Maryland police have launched an investigation into the fatal crash, believing alcohol may have been involved.
Hazel played at Maryland and Charlotte, while Lytton played at Florida State and Penn State.
Cornerback Jackson’s shock death comes just under three months since he was selected by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Minnesota took Jackson with the 108th overall pick in the fourth round, following his collegiate career for both the Oregon Ducks and Alabama Crimson Tide.
He was in consideration to be a starter for the Vikings for the upcoming NFL season.
The Vikings, owners Mark and Zygi Wilf and head coach Kevin O’Connell all paid moving tributes to Jackson on Saturday – with the franchise admitting they are ‘devastated’.
The team’s statement read: ‘We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident.
‘While we work to gather more information, we have spoken to Khyree’s family and offered the support of the Minnesota Vikings.
‘We have also communicated the news to Vikings players, coaches and staff and have offered counseling for those who need emotional support.
‘Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.’
Owners Mark and Zygi Wilf added: ‘We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree’s passing.
‘Khyree had an extremely bright future ahead of him as a player, and it was clear he was dedicated to being a tremendous person who made a positive difference in people’s lives.
‘We are thinking about Khyree’s family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss.’
‘I am absolutely crushed by this news. Khyree brought a contagious energy to our facility and our team,’ added Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell.
‘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. My heart goes out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.’
