Kyree Jackson, the late Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback who died in a car crash 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 former high school teammates Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, and Isaiah Hazel, 23.
Emergency medical services pronounced Jackson and Hazel dead at the scene, Maryland police said. Lytton, meanwhile, was taken to the hospital, where he later died.
Images of the crash have been released showing a mangled Dodge Charger 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.
Minnesota Vikings draft pick Khyree Jackson has passed away 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 was “doing the best he could in life and with his family.”
The grandfather added that the family “is going to try to get through this as best we can.”
Dalawn Parrish, who coached all three victims at Henry Wise High School, said the former teammates remained friends after graduating.
“Isaiah had an infectious attitude, he was extraordinary. Everyone loved being around him,” she said. “AJ was a phenomenal athlete. He could do whatever he wanted. Khyree, his self-confidence was unbelievable.”
The Vikings, owners Mark and Zygi Wilf and head coach Kevin O’Connell have paid emotional tributes to Jackson and the franchise says it is “devastated.”
The team’s statement read: ‘We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following a car accident overnight.
‘As we work to gather more information, we have spoken with Khyree’s family and offered the support of the Minnesota Vikings.
‘We have also communicated the news to Vikings players, coaches and staff and offered counseling for those in need of emotional support.
Images showed Jackson and his friends’ Dodge Charger split in two.
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, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident.’
Owners Mark and Zygi Wilf added: ‘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 great person who made a positive difference in people’s lives.
‘We are thinking of Khyree’s family and friends and everyone at the Minnesota Vikings following this devastating loss.
