Penn State releases statement following death of former CB AJ Lytton

Penn State has released a statement following the death of former cornerback AJ Lytton. He was one of three people killed in a Maryland car crash that also involved fourth-round NFL Draft pick Khyree Jackson.

Lytton played at Penn State in 2021 after starting his career at Florida State. He appeared in 11 games with the Nittany Lions, totaling one solo tackle that year.

“The Penn State Football Family mourns the loss of former Nittany Lion, A.J. Lytton,” the statement read. “Our thoughts & prayers are with his family, friends, high school & all involved in the tragedy.”

The Penn State Football Family mourns the loss of former Nittany Lion, A.J. Lytton. Our thoughts & prayers are with his family, friends, high school & all involved in the tragedy. pic.twitter.com/VUDZIsshwy

— Penn State Football (@PennStateFball) July 6, 2024

Lytton played two years at Florida State from 2018-19, where he totaled 28 tackles and an interception. He didn’t play in 2020 after leaving the Seminoles, but eventually made his way to State College to play for Penn State.

Lytton was among three people killed in the Saturday morning crash, along with Jackson and Hazel. They all attended Dr. Henry Wise (Md.) High. Maryland Police released details of the accident Saturday afternoon, confirming it took place just after 3 a.m. ET. Police also said investigators believe alcohol “may have been a contributing circumstance in the crash.”

Hazel and Jackson were pronounced deceased on the scene. Lytton was transported to the University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center where he was pronounced dead by the attending medical professionals.

“The preliminary investigation indicates the driver of the silver Infiniti, later identified as Cori Clingman, was traveling northbound on Route 4/Pennsylvania Avenue in Prince George’s County,” the report said. “Investigators believe Clingman attempted to change lanes while driving at a high rate of speed when she struck the Dodge Charger and then struck the Chevrolet Impala. The Charger subsequently traveled off of the right side of the roadway and struck multiple tree stumps where the vehicle came to rest.”

The Minnesota Vikings drafted Jackson in the fourth round of this year’s NFL Draft, and he was gearing up for his rookie season with the team. They also confirmed his death, posting a tribute on social media Saturday morning. Head coach Kevin O’Connell, general manager Kewsi Adofo-Mensah and owners Mark and Zygi Wilf all released statements, as well.

“We are devastated by the news of Khyree Jackson’s death following an overnight car accident. Our thoughts are with Khyree’s family, friends, teammates and coaches, as well as all the victims of this tragic accident,” the Vikings posted on X (formerly Twitter).