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In a case that has shocked both the sports world and the local community, 24-year-old Cori Clingman has been formally charged with 13 counts, including driving under the influence (DUI) and vehicular manslaughter, for her role in the tragic accident that took the life of Minnesota Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson.
The fatal crash occurred in the early hours of July 6, 2024, on a Maryland roadway. Clingman was allegedly driving an Infiniti Q50 at high speed when she attempted to change lanes, striking a Dodge Charger carrying Jackson and his former high school teammates, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., along with a Chevrolet Impala. The collision caused the Charger to veer off the road, striking tree stumps and violently overturning. Jackson and Hazel were pronounced dead at the scene, while Lytton succumbed to his injuries later at a hospital.
Investigators revealed that Clingman’s blood alcohol content (BAC) exceeded the legal limit of 0.08%. Evidence from the scene and witness accounts suggest that street racing may have been a factor in the accident.
Prosecutors detailed the charges against Clingman in a press briefing, which include multiple counts of vehicular manslaughter, DUI causing death, reckless endangerment, and street racing. If convicted on all counts, Clingman could face up to 30 years in prison.
Khyree Jackson, a promising young cornerback, had recently signed with the Minnesota Vikings as an undrafted free agent. Known for his resilience and hard work, Jackson’s death left the team and his family heartbroken. In honor of his memory, the Vikings contributed to his funeral expenses and ensured that his signing bonus was paid to his family.
Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., also former high school football stars, were remembered as talented athletes and role models in their community. Their deaths, along with Jackson’s, have been a devastating blow to those who knew and loved them.
The community continues to mourn the loss of these three young men, while the legal proceedings against Clingman move forward. Authorities have used this tragedy as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the irreversible consequences it can have.
As the investigation unfolds, police are urging drivers to make safer choices and avoid dangerous activities like speeding and street racing. “This was a preventable tragedy,” one investigator stated. “It’s a heartbreaking reminder of the cost of recklessness on our roads.”
A bond hearing for Clingman is expected to take place soon, with the trial likely to begin later this year. Meanwhile, families and fans of the victims continue to grieve, hoping for justice and healing in the wake of this senseless tragedy.
