Key Highlights
- A woman pleaded guilty to a high-speed drunk driving crash in Prince George’s County that killed three people.
- The victims were all former Wise High School students and football teammates: NFL player Khyree Jackson, Anthony Lytton Jr., and Isaiah Hazel.
- Prosecutors say the crash occurred on July 6, 2024, at approximately 130 miles per hour after the vehicle spun out of control and struck a tree stump.
- The driver’s blood alcohol level was estimated to be between 0.12 and 0.18 at the time of the crash.
Tragic Collision Ends Lives of Promising Athletes
A significant tragedy unfolded in Prince George’s County, Virginia, when Cori Clingman pleaded guilty to negligent homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence on Friday. The crash claimed the lives of three young men: NFL player Khyree Jackson and his friends Anthony Lytton Jr. and Isaiah Hazel.
Context and Circumstances
The victims were all former classmates from Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, Maryland, where they played football together on the 2016 state championship team. Khyree Jackson had just been drafted to play with the Minnesota Vikings of the NFL.
Details of the Crash
The crash occurred around July 6, 2024, when Isaiah Hazel was driving a vehicle at an excessive speed of approximately 130 miles per hour. The car lost control and struck a tree stump, resulting in fatal injuries to all occupants. Prosecutors stated that Clingman was driving 109 miles per hour at the time of the accident and had consumed alcohol.
According to the State’s Attorney Tara Jackson, Clingman’s blood alcohol level was estimated between 0.12 and 0.18 at the time of the crash on Route 4 near Dower House Road. She swerved into another car before losing control of the vehicle.
Legal Consequences
Clingman has been convicted on three counts of negligent homicide by motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, one for each victim. Each count carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. The state is recommending a sentence of 15 years, suspended all but three.
During court proceedings, Clingman acknowledged her actions when the judge asked if she understood what she was doing.
The families of the deceased were present and did not wish to speak publicly after the hearing. Clingman is currently under private home detention.
Educational Message from District Attorney
Prosecutor Tara Jackson emphasized the preventability of such tragedies, stating, “Incidents like these are not just accidents. They are preventable tragedies that occur from conscious choices.” She urged the public to reflect on the risks associated with speeding and driving under the influence.
The case highlights the critical importance of road safety and responsible behavior among young adults who often have access to alcohol and vehicles. The loss of promising athletes like Khyree Jackson serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless decisions.
Looking Ahead
Clingman’s sentencing is scheduled for February 2025, with prosecutors requesting a three-year prison term. The case underscores ongoing efforts to address drunk driving and reckless behavior in communities across Prince George’s County.
