Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson and two friends died after their car was hit by another vehicle “that was driving at a high rate of speed,” US police said.
The fatal accident in Maryland It happened shortly before 3.15am local time on Saturday.
Jackson, 24, who had been the front-seat passenger of a maroon Dodge Charger when it was involved in a three-car collision, died at the scene, according to state police.
Also killed were Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr, 24, with whom he was traveling.
The three had been high school football teammates in Maryland.
Investigators believe the driver of a silver Infiniti had “attempted to change lanes while driving at a high rate of speed” when she collided with the Charger before colliding with a Chevrolet Impala.
The collision forced the Charger off the road, causing it to crash into several tree stumps before coming to a stop.
No one in the other vehicles was injured.
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell said he was “absolutely crushed” by Jackson’s death and “speechless.”
Posted on X: “Khyree brought an infectious energy to our facility and our team.
“His confidence and engaging personality immediately attracted his peers to him.
“In our short time together, it was evident that Khyree was going to become a tremendous professional soccer player, but what was most impressive was his desire to become the best person he could be for his family and those around him.”
Jackson was a “true talent.” Photo: AP
The Vikings said they were “devastated” by Jackson’s death.
The team wrote on X: “Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.”
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Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf said in a statement: “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 that he was dedicated to being a tremendous person who made a positive difference in people’s lives.”
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Meanwhile, the NFL said: “The NFL family is deeply saddened and devastated by the passing of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with his family, loved ones and everyone involved in this tragic accident.”
Jackson, from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, had been a starting cornerback at the University of Oregon before joining the Vikings.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore said Jackson was a “true talent who touched so many lives.”
“We mourn him and the other two souls lost in this accident,” he posted on X.
Police said they believe alcohol “may have been a contributing circumstance to the crash” and that charges are pending.
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