UPPER MARLBOROUGH, Md. (AP) — Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Kyrie Jackson and two of his high school teammates were killed in a car crash early Saturday in Maryland, police and the team said.
Maryland State Police said Jackson, 24, and Isaiah Hazell died at the scene and Anthony Litton Jr. was pronounced dead at a hospital after the three-vehicle crash in Prince George's County. Litton was 24 and Hazell was 23.
Police said the three were in the same car just after 3 a.m. when it was struck by another vehicle that was speeding and changing lanes.
The Vikings released a statement saying the team had spoken with Jackson's family and was “devastated by this news.”
“We are heartbroken by Kyrie's passing,” Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said. “As we got to know him through the pre-draft process, it became clear what goals Kyrie wanted to achieve both professionally and personally. His story is one of resilience. He took each step to become the best version of himself, not only for himself, but for those who cared about and respected him.”
Jackson was a fourth-round draft pick by the Vikings in April. He played two years at Alabama and one season at Oregon to finish his collegiate career.
Jackson was expected to compete for the starting cornerback spot when the team's training camp begins later this month in Eagan, Minnesota.
“We are absolutely devastated by this news,” Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell said. “Kyrie brings an infectious energy to our facility and team, and his confidence and engaging personality quickly drew teammates to him.”
Hazel played college football at the University of Maryland and the University of Charlotte, while Litton played at Florida State and Penn State.
The three won a state championship at Dr. Henry A. Wise Middle School in Maryland. I paid tribute to them. In a social media post.
Police said the Dodge Charger, driven by Hazel and carrying Jackson and Litton, was struck by a vehicle and went off the road, striking multiple tree stumps.
Investigators believe the driver of a second vehicle traveling northbound attempted to change lanes “at a high rate of speed,” striking the car driven by Hazell and a third vehicle.
There were no injuries in the second and third vehicles.
Investigators say alcohol may have been a factor in the crash and charges may be filed.
Jackson was named to the All-Pac-12 Conference first team by the Associated Press last season after tying for second in the conference with three interceptions. His collegiate career began in 2019 at junior college.
“Rest in peace Kyrie…love you,” Oregon coach Dan Lanning posted on social media. “Words are lacking. I will miss your smile. Great player and great person.”
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