HOUSTON, TX — In a tragic crash early Saturday morning, three former Texas football players lost their lives and one was injured in a severe car accident in Houston.
Houston Assistant Police Chief Megan Howard reported that around 2 a.m., a high-speed collision occurred in downtown Houston. A black Chrysler 300, moving south on Fannin Street at a high speed, ran a red light and collided with a black Acura SUV traveling east on Pierce Street. The Acura had a "stale" green light when the accident happened.
At the crash site, four individuals were pronounced dead, and another four were hospitalized. Of those hospitalized, two later succumbed to their injuries. Among the injured, one woman faced life-threatening conditions, while a man was being questioned by the police.
The driver of the Chrysler 300, one of the deceased, was identified as NFL star D.J. Hayden, a first-round draft pick in the 2013 NFL Draft by the then Oakland Raiders. Hayden, a standout at Elkins High School in Missouri City and the University of Houston, was renowned for his recovery from a near-fatal on-field injury during his senior year. He played for multiple NFL teams, including the Detroit Lions and Jacksonville Jaguars, and most recently appeared in a game for the Washington Football Team, now known as the Commanders.
Hayden's career was notable for his 328 tackles, 4.5 sacks, and other significant defensive achievements. He held the record as the highest-drafted player from Houston until Ed Oliver was selected 9th overall.
Also among the deceased were former Houston Cougars football players Zach McMillian, a defensive back (2010 - 2013), and Ralph Oragwu, a defensive tackle (2009 - 2013). Additionally, former Cougars defensive back Jeffrey Lewis sustained injuries in the crash.
The incident remains under investigation, and further details are expected as authorities continue their inquiry.
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