Minnesota Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson, 24, died in a car crash early Saturday morning in Maryland, along with two others, as authorities suspect alcohol was a factor in the tragic accident.

The crash, which occurred just before 3:15 a.m. in Prince George's County, Maryland, involved three vehicles and resulted in the deaths of Jackson, driver Isaiah Hazel, 23, and Anthony Lytton, 24. While the specifics of the crash are still under investigation, authorities have indicated that alcohol may have played a role. The Minnesota Vikings have expressed their devastation over the loss of Jackson, who was a promising fourth-round draft pick in 2024 and had earned first-team All-Pac 12 honors during his collegiate career at the University of Oregon. No injuries were reported among the occupants of the other vehicles involved.

According to reports, the incident involved three vehicles: a maroon Dodge Charger, a silver Infiniti, and a silver Chevrolet Impala. Jackson was in the front passenger seat of the Dodge Charger with driver Isaiah Hazel and fellow passenger Anthony Lytton. The sequence of events began when the Infiniti, driven by Cori Clingman, attempted to change lanes while traveling northbound on Route 4 at high speed. The Infiniti collided with the Charger, and then subsequently struck the Impala.

The Dodge Charger veered off the road, hitting multiple tree stumps before coming to a stop. Both Hazel and Jackson died at the scene, while Lytton was pronounced dead later at a hospital. Fortunately, none of the four occupants in the Infiniti and the Impala were injured in the crash.

Authorities on the scene have suggested that alcohol might have been a contributing factor, and they have indicated that charges are pending as the investigation continues. Detailed toxicology reports and further analysis are anticipated to provide more insight into the exact circumstances that led to the crash.

Khyree Jackson had recently begun his professional football career, having been drafted by the Minnesota Vikings as the No. 108 pick in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Prior to entering the NFL, Jackson played collegiate football at a high level, attending Fort Scott Community College in Kansas, the University of Alabama, and finally the University of Oregon.

During his tenure at the University of Oregon, Jackson earned first-team All-Pac 12 honors in 2023. His standout defensive stats included 34 tackles, two sacks, seven pass breakups, and three interceptions. His performance on the field showcased a promising talent, leading to his selection by the Vikings.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell publicly shared his sorrow following Jackson’s death, remembering him for his energy, personality, and professionalism. The Vikings as an organization also issued a heartfelt statement expressing their grief over the tragic loss. The team extended their thoughts and condolences to Jackson’s family, friends, teammates, and coaches.

The football community at large, including Jackson’s former college teammates and coaches, has been reacting to the news with an outpouring of tributes and memories of his impact both on and off the field. Jackson's sudden passing has left a void in many hearts, coming at a time when he was just beginning to make his mark in professional sports.