Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, 24, and two others died in a car crash early Saturday morning in Prince George's County, Maryland, according to Maryland State Police as reported by the NFL.
Jackson was the front passenger in a Dodge Charger involved in a three-car collision in Upper Marlboro. Emergency medical personnel pronounced Jackson dead at the scene. Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, who were also in the Charger, lost their lives in the crash. Hazel, the driver, was declared dead at the scene, while Lytton Jr., seated in the rear, was transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center and later pronounced dead.
The Charger was struck by a silver Infiniti traveling northbound on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue. Preliminary investigations indicate that the Infiniti, driven by Cori Clingman, attempted a high-speed lane change, hitting the Charger and then a Chevrolet Impala. The Charger veered off the road and hit multiple tree stumps before coming to rest. Authorities suspect alcohol may have been a factor in the crash, which remains under investigation. The driver of the Chevy Impala declined medical treatment at the scene, while the two additional passengers, emerged unharmed.
The Minnesota Vikings expressed their devastation over Jackson's death. "We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson's death following an overnight car accident," the team said. They have offered support to Jackson's family and counseling for team members. Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell shared his sorrow, highlighting Jackson's energy and potential both on and off the field.
The NFL also released a statement expressing deep sadness and condolences to Jackson's family and everyone affected by the tragedy.
Jackson was selected in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Vikings. He played two years at the University of Alabama before transferring to the University of Oregon for his final collegiate season. In 2023, he earned All-Pac-12 first-team honors, showcasing his talent with three interceptions, seven pass break-ups, two sacks, and 34 total tackles in 12 games.
In the aftermath of the tragic car crash that claimed the lives of Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson and two others, many questions arise about the legal implications of such incidents. To better understand the potential legal processes and rights of those affected by similar accidents, we spoke with Aaron Blank, an experienced Maryland car accident lawyer. Mr. Blank offers valuable information on wrongful death lawsuits, personal injury claims, and the impact of potential alcohol involvement in these cases. His professional perspective sheds light on the complex legal landscape that families and victims navigate following devastating car accidents.
Editor Darla Medina: What legal options do families have when loved ones are killed or injured in a car crash?
Attorney Aaron Blank: In tragic cases like this, families of the deceased may file wrongful death lawsuits. These legal actions can help recover damages for loss of companionship, funeral costs, and lost future earnings. Injured parties might pursue personal injury claims to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.
Medina: How does the potential involvement of alcohol affect these cases?
Blank: If alcohol is confirmed as a factor, it could result in additional criminal charges against the at-fault driver, possibly including vehicular manslaughter. In civil cases, it may increase the likelihood of punitive damages, which are intended to punish particularly reckless behavior.
Medina: That's helpful information. What would the families need to do to pursue these legal options?
Blank: The families should act quickly to consult with a reputable personal injury attorney who specializes in car accident and wrongful death cases. The attorney can review the details of the accident, gather the necessary evidence, and file the appropriate legal claims on behalf of the families.
Time is of the essence, as there are strict deadlines and statutes of limitations that must be adhered to in order to preserve the families' legal rights. An experienced lawyer can navigate the complex legal process and ensure the families receive the maximum compensation they are entitled to under the law.
Medina: Thank you for providing this valuable information for our readers. Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of Khyree, Isaiah, and Anthony during this unimaginably difficult time.
The loss of Khyree Jackson, Isaiah Hazel, and Anthony Lytton Jr. is a devastating blow to their families, the football community, and all those whose lives they touched. While no amount of legal action can undo this tragic event, pursuing the available legal remedies can provide a measure of justice and financial support during this unimaginably difficult time.
If you or a loved one have been affected by a similar car accident, we encourage you to reach out to our firm for a free consultation. Our team of experienced car accident and wrongful death attorneys can evaluate your case, explain your legal rights, and guide you through the complex legal process. Let us put our knowledge and resources to work for you, so you can focus on healing and honoring the memory of your loved ones.