Former NFL cornerback DJ Hayden was one of six people killed in a Saturday morning car crash, Houston police said.
Hayden was 33 years old.
Authorities said they received a call around 2 a.m. about a traffic crash involving two vehicles, a Chrysler 300 and an Acura SUV. The Chrysler was considered the at-fault vehicle because it ran the red light at a high rate of speed.
Four people were pronounced dead at the scene, and four others were taken to a local hospital, where two died later. Police said five men and one woman, including one police officer who appeared to be homeless, were among the dead. An investigation is underway.
Two of Hayden’s teammates at the University of Houston, cornerback Zach McMillan and offensive lineman Ralph Olagoo, also died in the crash. Another teammate, cornerback Jeffrey Lewis, is recovering from an injury.
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“The entire University of Houston community is saddened by the tragic passing of former football student-athletes DJ Hayden, Zachary McMillian, and Ralph Olagoo earlier today, and we extend our best wishes to Jeffrey Lewis for his continued recovery. We continue to have them in our thoughts and prayers,” the university’s athletic department said. In a statement. “We collectively mourn the passing of three individuals who had an indelible impact on their lives, and extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends and loved ones. While the rally provided some of Houston football’s most unforgettable moments, their unique legacy will be best remembered for the way they loved their teammates, supported their community and overcame hardship. ”
Hayden was drafted in the first round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Oakland Raiders despite sustaining a fatal heart injury after being kneed in the chest by a teammate during practice during the 2012 season in Houston. Ta.
Haden played eight seasons in the league, one season each with the Detroit Lions and Washington, and three seasons with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
He finished his NFL career with 4.5 sacks, four interceptions, and 46 pass breakups.