Former LSU receiver Kyren Lacy has tragically passed away at the young age of 24 in an apparent suicide while being pursued by authorities in Houston, Texas. This heartbreaking news comes from a report released by the Harrison County sheriff’s office on Sunday. Lacy was reportedly facing legal troubles stemming from a fatal car accident in Louisiana last December, which had significantly impacted his NFL prospects.
According to Harris County authorities, their pursuit of Lacy late Saturday night concluded when he crashed his vehicle. Upon approaching the car to assist Lacy, officers discovered that he had died, with initial reports indicating an apparent suicide. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
The LSU community expressed deep sorrow over the loss of their former football student-athlete. In an official statement, LSU said, “We’re saddened to learn of the tragic passing of former LSU football student-athlete Kyren Lacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones, as well as his former teammates and coaches impacted by his passing.” This sentiment reflects the profound impact Lacy had on those around him during his time at the university.
Lacy had a successful season at LSU, leading the team with nine receiving touchdowns. Just days before his death, he had declared for the NFL draft, hoping to take the next step in his football career. However, his draft stock took a significant hit following his alleged involvement in a tragic accident that resulted in the death of a 78-year-old man in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana.
Reports indicate that Lacy was driving recklessly — exceeding the speed limit and passing in a no-passing zone — when a motorist swerving to avoid his Dodge Charger collided head-on with another vehicle. The victim, Herman Hall of Thibodaux, Louisiana, succumbed to his injuries after being transported to a hospital. Following the incident, Lacy fled the scene without calling for help, leading to charges of negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run, and reckless operation of a vehicle.
Lacy participated in 12 games for LSU during the season, recording 58 catches for a total of 866 receiving yards, making him second on the team in both categories. Unfortunately, he did not play in LSU’s victory over Baylor in the Texas Bowl on December 31, as he was already embroiled in the aftermath of the tragic accident.
Kyren Lacy’s untimely death serves as a stark reminder of the pressures faced by young athletes and the tragic consequences that can arise from difficult circumstances. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of many, as friends, family, and fans remember his contributions to LSU football and the potential that was cut short far too soon.