Minnesota Vikings coach and owners release heartbreaking statements following Khyree Jackson’s death in a car accident: ‘I am at a loss for words’

Key officials with the Minnesota Vikings have issued some heartbreaking statements following the shocking death of player Khyree Jackson in a car crash.

The football player was tragically killed in a three-car crash in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, along with his former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, and Isaiah Hazel, 23.

His mother, Ebbony Jackson, confirmed the news to TMZ on Saturday, saying she received a phone call about his death in the early morning hours of Saturday.

Jackson and Hazel were both pronounced dead at the scene by emergency medical services, Maryland State Police said. Meanwhile, Lytton was taken to a hospital, where he later died.

The Vikings, owners Mark and Zygi Wilf and head coach Kevin O’Connell have all paid touching tributes to Jackson, with the franchise saying it is “devastated.”

His former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr. (L) and Isaiah Hazel (R) also passed away

The team’s statement said: ‘We are shocked to learn that Khyree Jackson has passed away following a car accident that occurred overnight.

While we continue to gather more information, we have spoken with Khyree’s family and offered the support of the Minnesota Vikings.

‘We have also passed the news on to the Vikings players, coaches and staff and have offered counseling to those needing emotional support.

“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, and all those affected by this tragic accident.”

Owners Mark and Zygi Wilf added: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Khyree’s passing.

‘Khyree had a really bright future ahead of him as a player and it was clear that he was committed to being a great person who would make a positive difference to people’s lives.

“Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family and friends and all members of the Minnesota Vikings after this devastating loss.

Minnesota selected Jackson with the 108th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2024 Draft

Jackson is pictured with quarterback and fellow draftee JJ McCarthy during rookie camp in May

The crash happened around 3 a.m. ET Saturday when a woman, identified as Cori Clingman, attempted to change lanes at a high rate of speed on Route 4 in a silver Infinity, police believe.

She crashed into the Dodge Charger driven by Hazel and carrying Jackson and Lytton. The Dodge collided with another vehicle, causing the Dodge to leave the road and hit several trees before eventually coming to a stop.

Clingman had two other passengers in her vehicle at the time of the crash, while the other driver was the sole occupant of his Chevrolet. No one else was injured in the crash.

Maryland police have launched an investigation into the fatal crash, suspecting alcohol was a factor.

Hazel played for Maryland and Charlotte, while Lytton played for Florida State and Penn State.

The cornerback’s shocking death came just under three months after he was selected by the Vikings in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Jackson posted his last Instagram post Friday night, just hours before his death

Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell admitted he was “at a loss for words” after the news broke

Minnesota took Jackson with the 108th overall pick in the fourth round after his collegiate career with both the Oregon Ducks and Alabama Crimson Tide. He was considered a starting center for the Vikings for the upcoming season.

“I am absolutely devastated by this news. Khyree brought an infectious energy to our facility and our team,” added Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell.

‘His confidence and engaging personality immediately attracted his teammates.

‘In the short time we were together, it was clear that Khyree would develop into a great professional footballer, but even more impressive was his desire to become the best person he could be for his family and those around him.

“I am speechless. My heart goes out to Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches.”