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Former LSU Wide Receiver Kyren Lacy Dies at 24 Amid Negligent Homicide Case
Tragic news has emerged regarding Kyren Lacy, the former LSU wide receiver once considered a top prospect for the NFL draft. Reports indicate Lacy has died by suicide at the age of 24, just days before a scheduled court appearance related to a negligent homicide charge stemming from a fatal car crash.
Death Confirmed as Suicide
The passing of Kyren Lacy was reported on Sunday with initial indications pointing to suicide as the cause of death, according to WBRZ. The news has sent shockwaves through the college football community and beyond.
Legal Troubles and Charges
Lacy’s death comes after a period of legal turmoil. He was arrested on January 13th following a warrant issued in connection to a December 17th automobile accident that resulted in the death of a 78-year-old man in Louisiana.
Authorities alleged that Lacy was driving recklessly, specifically speeding and illegally passing in a no-passing zone. The incident reportedly occurred when a driver swerved to avoid Lacyโs vehicle and collided head-on with another car. Furthermore, Lacy was accused of leaving the scene of the crash.
Facing serious charges, Lacy was indicted for:
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- Negligent homicide
- Hit-and-run driving involving serious injury or death
- Reckless operation of a vehicle resulting in an accident
He was released on a $151,000 bond. In February, amidst these mounting legal challenges, Lacy posted on social media, stating, โTrust the process!!โ
NFL Prospect and Pro Day Participation
Despite the legal proceedings, Lacy had recently participated in the LSU pro day on March 26th, showcasing his athletic abilities to NFL scouts. This event took place just 18 days prior to reports of his death, highlighting the abrupt and unforeseen nature of this tragedy.
Mourning and Tributes
News of Lacy’s death surfaced on Sunday morning, stating he was discovered deceased on Saturday night in Houston. LSU Football officially acknowledged the loss on social media, expressing their condolences: “The LSU Football family mourns the loss of Kyren Lacy.”
A poignant tribute emerged from Lacy’s friend, Rontrell Sandolph, who shared his grief on social media, questioning, “Why would u leave me bro?” Sandolph’s emotional message conveyed deep sorrow and disbelief, emphasizing their close bond and shared aspirations.
Sandolph’s tribute further detailed their shared dreams of Lacy reaching the NFL and Sandolph playing basketball overseas, underscoring the personal and profound impact of Lacy’s passing on those close to him.
Kyren Lacy’s Football Career
The 2024 season marked Lacy’s most successful year at LSU, where he recorded 58 receptions for 866 yards and led the team with nine touchdowns across 12 games. His contributions over three years with the Tigers included 112 catches, 1,692 receiving yards, and 16 touchdowns, demonstrating his talent and impact as a wide receiver.
Controversy Surrounding NFL Draft Declaration
Lacy’s decision to declare for the NFL Draft just two days following the fatal car accident drew criticism and sparked controversy, given the gravity of the situation and pending legal proceedings.
Conflicting Accounts of the Car Crash
The fatal collision involved another vehicle carrying Thibodaux, Louisiana resident Hall, who later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. Reports indicate that drivers of the other vehicles involved also sustained injuries.
However, Lacyโs attorney, Matthew Ory, asserted that his client did not believe himself responsible for the crash. In a statement, Ory contended, โThe collision that resulted in the death of Mr. Herman was not caused by Mr. Lacyโs actions.โ
Oryโs statement alleges that another vehicle crossed the centerline and collided with Mr. Hermanโs vehicle, and that vehicle received a citation. He further claimed that Lacy’s vehicle did not strike Mr. Hermanโs vehicle and that Lacy proceeded cautiously after the initial impact.
These claims directly contradict statements from Louisiana police, who maintain that Lacy was โrecklessly passed multiple vehicles at a high rate of speedโ before โcrossing the centerline and entering the northbound lane while in a designated No-Passing Zone.โ
Ory also disputed police accounts of Lacyโs actions post-accident.
Defense Attorney’s Statement
According to Ory, Lacy was driving on a road with two lanes in each direction and safely re-entered his lane after briefly passing other vehicles. Ory emphasized that Lacy did not cause or contribute to the crash, and there was no suspicion of alcohol or drug involvement.
Addressing media reports suggesting Lacy returned to the scene, Ory clarified that “Mr. Lacy never โโreturnedโโ to the scene of the accident.”
Ory defended Lacyโs subsequent actions, explaining they were not intended to minimize the tragedy, as Lacy believed he was not at fault. He affirmed Lacyโs character as an exemplary community member and teammate and expressed confidence that further investigation would support Lacy’s innocence. Ory stated his intent to vigorously defend Lacy in the case, which will now likely be impacted by Lacy’s death.
Lacy’s NFL Draft Announcement Statement
Upon declaring for the NFL draft, Lacy conveyed gratitude to his coaches, support staff, and trainers for his development, both as a football player and as an individual. He acknowledged the team’sๆชๅฎ็ฐไบ national championship goal but pledged to carry forward life lessons learned into his future.
Crisis Support Information
If you are struggling or experiencing a crisis, please reach out for help. You can contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.