The individual responsible for the tragic car accident that took the life of Minnesota Vikings rookie Kyrie Jackson last year has pleaded guilty to three counts of manslaughter due to alcohol intoxication. Cori Clingman, 25, entered his plea on Friday in a Maryland court and is now facing a maximum sentence of three years in prison. However, prosecutors are suggesting a five-year sentence for each charge.
State’s Attorney Tara Jackson from Prince George’s County remarked, “These incidents are more than just accidents. They are preventable tragedies that occur through conscious choices.” It’s a powerful statement, underscoring the gravity of the situation.
Before reaching this plea agreement, Clingman faced a total of 13 charges. His sentencing is set for February 4. He was reportedly driving over 100 mph while intoxicated when he caused the three-car accident on July 6, 2024. As a result of the crash, Jackson lost his life, alongside two of his former high school teammates, Isaiah Hazell and Anthony Litton Jr.
Authorities stated that Jackson and Hazell were pronounced dead on the scene, while Litton was taken to the hospital, where he was declared deceased. Interestingly, Clingman and his passengers escaped without injuries. It’s hard to fathom how that can happen.
Jackson, who was just a month shy of his 25th birthday at the time of the accident, had an impressive football career, playing at both Maryland and Charlotte, before being drafted by Minnesota as a fourth-round pick in 2024. On the other hand, Litton, aged 24, had played at Florida State and Penn State.
