Khyree Jackson’s grandfather and former coach give heartbreaking interview after Vikings star is killed in deadly crash: ‘We will try to get through this’
Kyree Jackson, the late Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback who died in a traffic accident on Saturday, is being remembered by his family and former coaches.
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.
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.
Footage has been released of the crash showing a Dodge Charger completely destroyed, with its rear axle separated from the rest of the car.
As family members arrived at the scene to assess the damage, Jackson’s grandfather, Anthony Jackson, spoke to NBC 4 Washington television.
Minnesota Vikings draftee Khyree Jackson has died at the young age of 24
Jackson’s grandfather Anthony (left) and former coach Dalawn Parrish gave emotional interviews
“He always had high aspirations,” Jackson said, adding that his grandson “did the best he could do in life and with his family.”
The grandfather added that the family will “do everything we can to get through this as best we can.”
Dalawn Parrish, who coached the three victims at Henry Wise High School, said the former teammates remained friends after they graduated.
“Isaiah had an infectious, infectious attitude. He was outstanding. Everybody loved being around him,” he said. “AJ. Phenomenal athlete. You know, he could do anything he wanted. Khyree, belief in himself was unbelievable.”
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.”
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.
Footage showed Jackson and his friends’ Dodge Charger ripped in half
Minnesota selected Jackson with the 108th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2024 Draft
“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.