Kyree Jackson, the late Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback who was killed in a traffic accident on Saturday, is being remembered by his family and former coaches.
The football player tragically died in a three-car accident in Upper Marlboro, Maryland and was killed along with former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, and Isaiah Hazel, 23.
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.
mages of the wreck have been released showing a totaled Dodge Charger with the rear axle separated from the rest of the car.
As family members arrived at the scene to survey the damage, Jackson’s grandfather, Anthony Jackson, spoke to a NBC 4 Washington.
Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson killed in Maryland car crash that claimed the lives of 2 others
Authorities said the driver of a silver Infiniti, identified as Cori Clingman, attempted to change lanes while “driving at a high rate of speed.” pic.twitter.com/WRL79xbfL3— Simo saadi🇲🇦🇵🇸🇺🇸 (@Simo7809957085) July 7, 2024
‘He always had high aspirations,’ Jackson said, adding that his grandson was ‘Doing the best that he could possibly do in life and with the family.’
The grandfather added that the family is ‘going to try to get through this as best as we possibly can.’
Dalawn Parrish, who coached the three victims at Henry Wise High School, said that the former teammates were all still friends after they had graduated.
‘Isaiah had an infectious, infectious attitude. He was extraordinary. Everybody loved being around him,’ he said. ‘A.J. Phenomenal athlete. You know, he could do anything he wanted. Khyree, belief in himself was incredible.’
The Vikings, owners Mark and Zygi Wilf and head coach Kevin O’Connell have all paid moving tributes to Jackson with the franchise saying 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.
