Former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy was tragically found dead on Saturday night in Houston, as confirmed by an official from LSU to ESPN on Sunday. The cause of his death remains unknown at this time, leaving many in shock and mourning the loss of a young athlete with a promising future.
Kyren Lacy had recently faced serious legal challenges after being accused of causing a crash that resulted in the death of a 78-year-old man on December 17. Following the incident, Lacy allegedly fled the scene without offering assistance or contacting emergency services. He turned himself in to authorities on January 12, 2023, and was subsequently jailed before being released on a $151,000 bail, as per police records.
Records from the Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office indicated that Lacy was charged with several serious offenses, including negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run resulting in death, and reckless operation of a vehicle. According to WAFB-TV reports, a grand jury was set to begin hearing evidence in his case the following Monday, further complicating the unfolding situation.
A release from the Louisiana State Police detailed the events leading up to the crash. Lacy was reportedly driving a 2023 Dodge Charger on Louisiana Highway 20 when he recklessly passed multiple vehicles at a high speed, crossing into the northbound lane while in a designated no-passing zone. This dangerous maneuver forced the driver of a northbound pickup truck to abruptly brake and swerve to avoid a head-on collision.
As the pickup swerved, a 2017 Kia Cadenza traveling behind it took evasive action, crossing the centerline and colliding head-on with a southbound 2017 Kia Sorento. Tragically, Herman Hall, a passenger in the Kia Sorento, later succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Reports indicate that Lacy drove past the scene of the accident without stopping to provide help or report his involvement.
Lacy's agent, Rocky Arceneaux, expressed that his client was fully cooperating with authorities during the legal proceedings. Just two days after the crash, Lacy declared for the NFL Draft on December 19, opting out of participating in LSU's win over Baylor in the Texas Bowl. He showcased his skills at LSU's pro day in March and was initially ranked as high as the No. 6 receiver prospect in the draft by ESPN's Mel Kiper in December. However, Lacy was not listed among the top 10 available wide receivers in Kiper's most recent Big Board published last month.
During his time at LSU, Lacy played three seasons after transferring from Louisiana. His standout performance came last year, where he recorded 58 receptions for 866 yards and led the team with nine touchdowns, showcasing his talent and potential as a wide receiver.
The news of Kyren Lacy's death has sent shockwaves through the LSU community and the world of collegiate sports. As details continue to emerge, many are left reflecting on the young athlete's journey, his potential in the NFL, and the tragic circumstances that led to his untimely passing.
