A Maryland woman has been sentenced to two years in prison following a tragic car accident that claimed the lives of NFL draftee Khyree Jackson and two of his friends. This sentencing took place on Wednesday, marking a significant moment in the aftermath of the 2024 incident.
Khyree Jackson was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the NFL Draft just months before the fatal crash. The other two victims, Isaiah Hazel and Anthony Lytton Jr., were also former high school teammates of Jackson’s from Wise High School in Upper Marlboro, Maryland.
Cori Clingman, the individual responsible for the crash, pleaded guilty in November to three counts of negligent homicide while under the influence of alcohol. Each count could have led to a maximum sentence of five years in prison. However, during her plea, prosecutors indicated they would advocate for a total of 15 years, with all but three years suspended. Ultimately, the judge issued a sentence of 15 years, with credit for time already served—377 days—meaning Clingman is expected to spend approximately two more years behind bars.
State's Attorney Tara Jackson expressed hope that Clingman would take this time to reflect deeply on her actions and the profound impact they had on the lives lost, including those of her friends. "I hope that she will use this time really to think about her actions and the lives that have been lost," Jackson stated, emphasizing the importance of accountability and growth.
The accident occurred on July 6, 2024, when Clingman crashed her Infiniti Q50 into a Dodge Charger and a Chevrolet Impala. The Charger, which carried Jackson along with his friends, was reported to be traveling at a high speed, further complicating the circumstances of the collision.
In a heart-wrenching display during the sentencing, family members and friends of the deceased delivered emotional victim impact statements. Jackson’s parents, Raymond and Ebbony, were visibly distraught as they spoke about their firstborn son. Ebbony described Khyree as her joy and best friend, sharing how they maintained a close bond through daily FaceTime conversations. A poignant letter from Jackson’s younger brother, Kolston, aged 12, highlighted the void left in his life due to his brother’s untimely passing, reminiscing about their shared love for sports and video games.
Before the judge announced her sentence, Clingman took a moment to address the courtroom, offering an apology to the families affected by her actions. "From the deepest place in my heart, I’m sorry," she said, noting that the victims were like family to her and vowing to honor their memories by striving to improve herself.
According to Clingman’s attorney, she had formed close friendships with all three men, having met one during middle school and the others in high school. Clingman served as a manager for the Wise High School football team, which solidified their connection through a shared passion for the sport.
Fortunately, none of the occupants of the Impala or Clingman’s vehicle suffered injuries in the crash. However, had the case proceeded to trial, prosecutors mentioned they had expert testimony indicating Clingman’s blood alcohol content at the time of the accident was between .12 and .18, significantly above the legal limit.
State's Attorney Jackson reminded everyone of the critical dangers associated with speeding and driving under the influence, reflecting on the devastating consequences that choices can have. "Watching families grieve over the loss of young lives in their early 20s—it's heartbreaking. These tragedies stem from decisions that we can choose not to make," she said poignantly.
Khyree Jackson, who played cornerback for Alabama before transferring to Oregon for his final college year, had shown great promise in his football career, earning recognition as a first-team All-Pac-12 player. His time with the Vikings, though brief, left a lasting impression on head coach Kevin O’Connell, who noted Jackson’s commitment to teamwork and personal growth.
This case raises important discussions around the responsibilities of individuals and the impacts of their actions on others. What are your thoughts on the sentencing? Do you believe justice has been served? Feel free to share your views in the comments.
