Alcohol Involved in Death of Vikings CB Khyree Jackson; More Info Revealed

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Alcohol Involved in Death of Vikings CB Khyree Jackson; More Info Revealed

Khyree Jackson, Minnesota Vikings — Brad Rempel-Imagn Images

Ted Schwerzler · Minnesota Sports Fan

Thu, Jan 23, 2025 ·

2 min read

ol Possibly Involved

This season the Minnesota Vikings wore a constant "KJ" patch on their helmets and clothing. Minnesota drafted Oregon cornerback Khyree Jackson . He looked like a difference maker on defense, but the story was cut short .

A tragic car accident killed the 24-year-old, and his absence sent shockwaves throughout the organization. Kevin O'Connell spoke at his funeral , and the Vikings continued to carry his presence throughout the season. Now more details are emerging regarding the situation.

Minnesota Vikings Khyee Jackson death gets new update

This summer Khyree Jackson was killed in a multi-car accident . Details didn't paint a full picture at the time. A Maryland state attorney has more to share now. Driver Cori Clingman now has new charges.

A grand jury has returned a 13-count indictment against the driver of one of the cars involved. Charges include DUI and vehicular manslaughter, state's attorney for Prince George's county Aisha Braveboy said at a news conference in Maryland. Driver was arrested today. https://t.co/51AxwcIVhR

— Kevin Seifert (@SeifertESPN) January 23, 2025

Clingman was arrested on Thursday and has been charged with driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter. State attorney Aisha Braveboy talked about how grave the situation was and said, "We should be seeing Mr. Jackson in the NFL right now."

Jackson's life story had only just begun. His life was a roller coaster to this point. Jackson joined the Oregon Ducks football program in 2023 after previously playing for Alabama.

He worked as a grocery story employee and looked to make his mark in the gaming world while playing NBA 2K competitively. He picked off three passes for the Ducks in 2023 and was a key member of Dan Lanning's defense. That elevated his draft status, and Minnesota saw him as a potential difference maker for their defense.

It remains to be seen what sort of impact alcohol may have played in the accident. More information will be provided on that front when the Maryland state attorney shares an update on Thursday afternoon.

The reality is that crashes and driving infractions involving alcohol remain a rampant problem across the country. The fact that Jackson had an otherwise heartwarming story ended so soon only hits harder.

Minnesota's secondary continued to carry on the legacy of Jackson throughout the season. He was present spiritually during the Wild Card Round game against the Los Angeles Rams, and will be someone the team doesn't lose sight of.