Lede: Three people, including Minnesota Vikings rookie cornerback Khyree Jackson, were killed in a three-car crash early Saturday morning in Upper Marlboro, Md.
Authorities said the crash occurred around 3 a.m. when a speeding vehicle struck a Dodge Charger driven by Isaiah Hazel, 23. Jackson, 24, and Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, were passengers. Both died at the scene, while Lytton was pronounced dead at a hospital.
The Maryland State Police reported that the Charger veered off the road and hit multiple tree stumps after being struck. No injuries were reported in the other vehicles involved.
A preliminary investigation indicates that the driver of the second vehicle attempted to change lanes quickly before the collision. Investigators are examining whether alcohol played a role in the incident, and charges may be forthcoming.
Jackson was a fourth-round draft pick by the Vikings in April, following a college career at Alabama and Oregon. He was vying for a starting cornerback position as training camp approaches later this month.
The Vikings have expressed their condolences, stating they are “devastated by the news.” Coach Kevin O'Connell described Jackson as bringing “contagious energy” to the team.
Jackson, Hazel, and Lytton were former high school teammates who won a state championship together at Dr. Henry A. Wise Jr. High School.