Driver Pleads Guilty in Fatal Crash That Killed Vikings Rookie

UPDATE: The driver responsible for the tragic crash that claimed the lives of Minnesota Vikings rookie Khyree Jackson and two friends has just pleaded guilty. Cori Clingman, 25, entered her plea on January 12, 2024, in a Maryland court, admitting to three counts of negligent homicide under the influence of alcohol.

This urgent development comes as the families of the victims grapple with their loss. Clingman had faced a total of 13 charges but accepted a plea deal that is expected to yield a sentence of five years for each count, with all but one year suspended. This means she may serve just three consecutive one-year terms. Sentencing is scheduled for February 4, 2024.

Details emerging from the incident reveal that Jackson, just a month shy of his 25th birthday, was a front-seat passenger in a Dodge Charger struck by an Infiniti Q50 driven by Clingman. The collision occurred shortly after 3 a.m. on July 6, 2024, in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Clingman was reportedly driving over 100 mph while attempting to change lanes when the impact occurred, sending the Charger careening off the road.

The crash resulted in the immediate deaths of both Jackson and the driver, Isaiah Hazel, 23, who was also a close friend and high school teammate. Another passenger, Anthony Lytton Jr., 24, was taken to the hospital but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

The driver of the Chevrolet Impala that was also involved in the crash was unharmed, as were Clingman and her two passengers. The Maryland State Police reported that the Charger struck multiple tree stumps before coming to a stop.

Jackson was drafted by the Vikings as a fourth-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and had participated in the team’s minicamp and offseason activities, showing great promise as a player from Oregon.

As the community mourns this devastating loss, many are left wondering about the implications of drunk driving and the need for stricter enforcement. The sentencing of Clingman will be closely watched, with many calling for accountability to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.