Breaking
15 Apr 2025, Tue

Ex-LSU star Kyren Lacy dies at 24 in Houston before court hearing on fatal crash

Kyren Lacy


The football community is reeling from the sudden death of Kyren Lacy, a former Louisiana State University (LSU) wide receiver, found dead in Houston at the age of 24. Lacy, a projected pick for the 2025 NFL Draft, was facing charges stemming from a December 2024 car accident that killed a 78-year-old man. His journey, defined by standout performances on the field and legal troubles off it, has left fans, teammates, and coaches mourning a talent gone too soon. The news, confirmed by LSU officials, sent shockwaves through the sport, highlighting the pressures young athletes face in the spotlight.

Kyren Lacy, hailing from Thibodaux, Louisiana, carved out an impressive collegiate career. After two seasons at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he emerged as a freshman star, he transferred to LSU in 2022. In 2024, he recorded 58 receptions, 866 yards, and nine touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the Tigers’ top playmakers. His draft declaration came just days after the accident that would overshadow his final months, sparking debates about his actions and the circumstances surrounding him.

Lacy’s death comes at a critical juncture, days before a court hearing tied to the crash. His loss resonates not only in football but also in Thibodaux, where he was a local hero. As the NFL Draft approaches, the absence of a player once tipped for greatness will be deeply felt by those who followed his rise.

Rise of a hometown hero

Born on December 27, 2000, Kyren Lacy grew up in Thibodaux, a small Louisiana town steeped in football culture. From an early age, he showcased exceptional athleticism, dominating at Thibodaux High School. In his senior year, he tallied 54 receptions, 864 yards, and 18 touchdowns, earning a four-star rating from 247Sports. His performance drew offers from schools like Houston, Louisiana-Monroe, and Miami, but Lacy chose to stay close to home.

In 2020, Lacy joined the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. As a freshman, he led the Ragin’ Cajuns with 28 receptions for 364 yards and four touchdowns. The following year, he helped secure a Sun Belt Conference title, contributing 22 catches, 304 yards, and six touchdowns. Seeking a bigger stage, he transferred to LSU, a powerhouse known for producing NFL talent.

At LSU, Lacy faced the challenge of competing in the Southeastern Conference, one of college football’s toughest battlegrounds. In 2022, his first year with the Tigers, he recorded 24 receptions for 268 yards. By 2023, he stepped up, hauling in 30 passes for 558 yards and seven touchdowns. His 2024 season was a breakout, establishing him as a leader and a draft prospect to watch.

Beyond football, Lacy excelled in basketball during high school, winning a Class 5A state title. Coaches praised his versatility and work ethic, noting his ability to grasp complex playbooks—a skill that translated to his success on the gridiron. Off the field, he earned academic accolades, reflecting a commitment to balancing sports and studies.

Career stats that defined Lacy

Kyren Lacy’s collegiate career is captured in numbers that showcase his growth:

  • Games played: 64 over five seasons across Louisiana and LSU.
  • Receptions: 162, averaging 14.6 yards per catch.
  • Receiving yards: 2,360, with a career-high 866 in 2024.
  • Touchdowns: 26, including nine in his final season.
  • Standout game: 6 receptions for 95 yards in the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl vs. Wisconsin.

The crash that changed everything

On December 17, 2024, Kyren Lacy’s life took a dramatic turn. Around noon on Louisiana Highway 20, he was driving a 2023 Dodge Charger at high speed, authorities reported. Attempting to pass vehicles in a no-passing zone, Lacy crossed the center line, setting off a chain reaction with devastating consequences.

A pickup truck in the opposite lane swerved and braked to avoid a head-on collision with Lacy’s car. Behind the pickup, a Kia Cadenza driver veered left to avoid a crash but crossed into oncoming traffic, striking a Kia Sorento head-on. Herman Hall, a 78-year-old former Marine riding in the Sorento, suffered critical injuries and later died in hospital. Two other drivers were also injured.

Lacy, according to reports, drove past the crash site without stopping to assist or report the incident. On January 10, 2025, authorities issued a warrant for his arrest, charging him with negligent homicide, hit-and-run resulting in death, and reckless driving. He surrendered three days later, was booked, and released after posting $151,000 bail.

Shockwaves through football

The accident and subsequent charges stunned the football world. At LSU, head coach Brian Kelly refrained from commenting extensively, citing the ongoing legal process. Teammates like quarterback Garrett Nussmeier offered support but kept public statements minimal. The university issued a brief statement, emphasizing respect for the judicial proceedings.

Fan reactions varied widely. Some rallied behind Lacy, arguing he deserved a fair trial, while others criticized his failure to stop at the scene. Social media buzzed with heated discussions, blending sympathy for Lacy’s situation with frustration over the tragedy’s impact. In Thibodaux, where Lacy was a beloved figure, the community grappled with pride in his achievements and sorrow over the events.

The NFL Draft landscape also shifted. Before the crash, Lacy was projected as a third-round pick with upside. After the charges, he was excluded from the NFL Combine, a critical showcase for prospects. Still, Lacy performed at LSU’s Pro Day on March 26, catching the eye of scouts despite the cloud hanging over him.

Legal proceedings in focus

Kyren Lacy’s legal battle was just beginning when news of his death broke. Following his surrender, he faced three charges:

  • Negligent homicide: For causing Herman Hall’s death through reckless driving.
  • Hit-and-run resulting in death: For leaving the scene without reporting the crash.
  • Reckless operation: For driving in a manner that endangered others.

His attorney, Matthew Ory, released a statement in February 2025, asserting Lacy’s innocence. Ory argued that Lacy completed a legal pass on a four-lane road and was not directly involved in the collision. The defense also denied claims that Lacy returned to the scene, as some reports suggested.

Prosecutors countered that Lacy’s maneuver triggered the fatal sequence of events. The case was set for a hearing just days after his death, with no public details on potential plea deals or further developments.

Thibodaux feels the loss

Thibodaux, a town of roughly 15,000, has long celebrated Kyren Lacy as a source of pride. Raised in a close-knit community, he embodied the dream of making it big from humble beginnings. His success at LSU inspired local youth, many of whom saw him as a role model for chasing ambition.

Herman Hall’s death, however, cast a shadow. A respected veteran known for community service, Hall’s passing prompted memorials across Thibodaux. The dual tragedies—Hall’s death and now Lacy’s—have left residents mourning two lives intertwined by fate.

Local schools, where Lacy once starred, held moments of silence in his honor. Community leaders called for unity, urging reflection on the fragility of life. Lacy’s story remains a fixture in Thibodaux, a testament to both his triumphs and the consequences of choices.

Defining moments on the field

Kyren Lacy’s five-year college career was punctuated by milestones that showcased his talent:

  • 2020: Led Louisiana as a freshman with 28 catches and four touchdowns.
  • 2021: Helped win the Sun Belt Conference, scoring six touchdowns.
  • 2023: Posted two 100-yard games for LSU.
  • 2024: Topped the Tigers with nine touchdown receptions.

Draft dreams under pressure

The NFL Draft represents the pinnacle for college athletes, but it comes with intense scrutiny. Kyren Lacy was lauded for his route-running, ability to track deep balls, and red-zone prowess. Analysts saw him as a versatile receiver who could thrive in multiple offensive systems.

The December crash altered his trajectory. NFL teams, which weigh character alongside talent, began to hesitate. Missing the Combine was a setback, but Lacy’s Pro Day performance showed his determination to stay in the conversation. Scouts noted his physical tools, even as questions about his off-field decisions lingered.

Away from football, Lacy navigated public and personal challenges. A February social media post reading “Trust the process!!” drew mixed reactions—some saw it as resilience, others as tone-deaf given the case’s gravity. Balancing his draft aspirations with legal woes tested his resolve.

A complicated legacy

Kyren Lacy leaves behind a legacy that defies simple narratives. On the field, he was a dynamic playmaker whose highlight-reel catches electrified crowds. Coaches at LSU praised his discipline, noting his knack for mastering game plans and executing under pressure.

Off the field, Lacy’s story resonated with those who saw him rise from a small town to national prominence. His academic achievements underscored a drive that extended beyond athletics, preparing him for life after football.

Yet, his final months were marred by controversy. The accident and its aftermath raised questions about accountability, overshadowing his accomplishments. Lacy’s death closes a chapter filled with promise, reminding the sports world of the fine line athletes walk.

Tributes pour in

News of Lacy’s death prompted an outpouring of grief. Close friend Rontrell Sandolph shared a heartfelt post online, grappling with the loss. LSU teammates, including running back Josh Williams, recalled Lacy’s infectious energy in the locker room and on the field.

The NFL community, while quieter, acknowledged the tragedy. Scouts who watched Lacy at Pro Day expressed regret over a career cut short. As the draft looms from April 24-26, teams will move forward without a player who could have been a difference-maker.

In Louisiana, sports talk shows dedicated airtime to Lacy’s journey, balancing praise for his talent with somber discussion of recent events. Fans flooded online forums with messages for his family, alongside calls to respect their privacy during this time.

Key dates in Lacy’s journey

Kyren Lacy’s career unfolded through pivotal moments:

  • 2020: Debuted for Louisiana, leading the team in receptions.
  • 2021: Won the Sun Belt Conference with the Ragin’ Cajuns.
  • 2022: Joined LSU, beginning his Tigers tenure.
  • 2023: Scored seven touchdowns, emerging as a key target.
  • 2024: Posted a career-best 866 yards and nine touchdowns.
  • December 2024: Declared for the NFL Draft days after the crash.
  • January 2025: Faced charges and surrendered to authorities.
  • March 2025: Showcased skills at LSU’s Pro Day.

A void in the game

Kyren Lacy’s death leaves an unmistakable void. In Thibodaux, his name still adorns local fields, inspiring young athletes to dream big. His loss challenges LSU’s football program to rally, with coach Brian Kelly navigating questions about supporting players under pressure.

For the NFL, Lacy was a prospect with rare potential. His speed, reliable hands, and football IQ made him a candidate to shine at the next level. Even amid controversy, he remained a name to watch—until fate intervened.

Lacy’s family, steadfast through his highs and lows, now faces unimaginable grief. Friends describe a young man who stayed upbeat, convinced he could overcome his challenges. His absence will echo in the hearts of those who knew him and the fans who cheered his every catch.



The football community is reeling from the sudden death of Kyren Lacy, a former Louisiana State University (LSU) wide receiver, found dead in Houston at the age of 24. Lacy, a projected pick for the 2025 NFL Draft, was facing charges stemming from a December 2024 car accident that killed a 78-year-old man. His journey, defined by standout performances on the field and legal troubles off it, has left fans, teammates, and coaches mourning a talent gone too soon. The news, confirmed by LSU officials, sent shockwaves through the sport, highlighting the pressures young athletes face in the spotlight.

Kyren Lacy, hailing from Thibodaux, Louisiana, carved out an impressive collegiate career. After two seasons at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, where he emerged as a freshman star, he transferred to LSU in 2022. In 2024, he recorded 58 receptions, 866 yards, and nine touchdowns, cementing his status as one of the Tigers’ top playmakers. His draft declaration came just days after the accident that would overshadow his final months, sparking debates about his actions and the circumstances surrounding him.

Lacy’s death comes at a critical juncture, days before a court hearing tied to the crash. His loss resonates not only in football but also in Thibodaux, where he was a local hero. As the NFL Draft approaches, the absence of a player once tipped for greatness will be deeply felt by those who followed his rise.

Rise of a hometown hero

Born on December 27, 2000, Kyren Lacy grew up in Thibodaux, a small Louisiana town steeped in football culture. From an early age, he showcased exceptional athleticism, dominating at Thibodaux High School. In his senior year, he tallied 54 receptions, 864 yards, and 18 touchdowns, earning a four-star rating from 247Sports. His performance drew offers from schools like Houston, Louisiana-Monroe, and Miami, but Lacy chose to stay close to home.

In 2020, Lacy joined the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. As a freshman, he led the Ragin’ Cajuns with 28 receptions for 364 yards and four touchdowns. The following year, he helped secure a Sun Belt Conference title, contributing 22 catches, 304 yards, and six touchdowns. Seeking a bigger stage, he transferred to LSU, a powerhouse known for producing NFL talent.

At LSU, Lacy faced the challenge of competing in the Southeastern Conference, one of college football’s toughest battlegrounds. In 2022, his first year with the Tigers, he recorded 24 receptions for 268 yards. By 2023, he stepped up, hauling in 30 passes for 558 yards and seven touchdowns. His 2024 season was a breakout, establishing him as a leader and a draft prospect to watch.

Beyond football, Lacy excelled in basketball during high school, winning a Class 5A state title. Coaches praised his versatility and work ethic, noting his ability to grasp complex playbooks—a skill that translated to his success on the gridiron. Off the field, he earned academic accolades, reflecting a commitment to balancing sports and studies.

Career stats that defined Lacy

Kyren Lacy’s collegiate career is captured in numbers that showcase his growth:

  • Games played: 64 over five seasons across Louisiana and LSU.
  • Receptions: 162, averaging 14.6 yards per catch.
  • Receiving yards: 2,360, with a career-high 866 in 2024.
  • Touchdowns: 26, including nine in his final season.
  • Standout game: 6 receptions for 95 yards in the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl vs. Wisconsin.

The crash that changed everything

On December 17, 2024, Kyren Lacy’s life took a dramatic turn. Around noon on Louisiana Highway 20, he was driving a 2023 Dodge Charger at high speed, authorities reported. Attempting to pass vehicles in a no-passing zone, Lacy crossed the center line, setting off a chain reaction with devastating consequences.

A pickup truck in the opposite lane swerved and braked to avoid a head-on collision with Lacy’s car. Behind the pickup, a Kia Cadenza driver veered left to avoid a crash but crossed into oncoming traffic, striking a Kia Sorento head-on. Herman Hall, a 78-year-old former Marine riding in the Sorento, suffered critical injuries and later died in hospital. Two other drivers were also injured.

Lacy, according to reports, drove past the crash site without stopping to assist or report the incident. On January 10, 2025, authorities issued a warrant for his arrest, charging him with negligent homicide, hit-and-run resulting in death, and reckless driving. He surrendered three days later, was booked, and released after posting $151,000 bail.

Shockwaves through football

The accident and subsequent charges stunned the football world. At LSU, head coach Brian Kelly refrained from commenting extensively, citing the ongoing legal process. Teammates like quarterback Garrett Nussmeier offered support but kept public statements minimal. The university issued a brief statement, emphasizing respect for the judicial proceedings.

Fan reactions varied widely. Some rallied behind Lacy, arguing he deserved a fair trial, while others criticized his failure to stop at the scene. Social media buzzed with heated discussions, blending sympathy for Lacy’s situation with frustration over the tragedy’s impact. In Thibodaux, where Lacy was a beloved figure, the community grappled with pride in his achievements and sorrow over the events.

The NFL Draft landscape also shifted. Before the crash, Lacy was projected as a third-round pick with upside. After the charges, he was excluded from the NFL Combine, a critical showcase for prospects. Still, Lacy performed at LSU’s Pro Day on March 26, catching the eye of scouts despite the cloud hanging over him.

Legal proceedings in focus

Kyren Lacy’s legal battle was just beginning when news of his death broke. Following his surrender, he faced three charges:

  • Negligent homicide: For causing Herman Hall’s death through reckless driving.
  • Hit-and-run resulting in death: For leaving the scene without reporting the crash.
  • Reckless operation: For driving in a manner that endangered others.

His attorney, Matthew Ory, released a statement in February 2025, asserting Lacy’s innocence. Ory argued that Lacy completed a legal pass on a four-lane road and was not directly involved in the collision. The defense also denied claims that Lacy returned to the scene, as some reports suggested.

Prosecutors countered that Lacy’s maneuver triggered the fatal sequence of events. The case was set for a hearing just days after his death, with no public details on potential plea deals or further developments.

Thibodaux feels the loss

Thibodaux, a town of roughly 15,000, has long celebrated Kyren Lacy as a source of pride. Raised in a close-knit community, he embodied the dream of making it big from humble beginnings. His success at LSU inspired local youth, many of whom saw him as a role model for chasing ambition.

Herman Hall’s death, however, cast a shadow. A respected veteran known for community service, Hall’s passing prompted memorials across Thibodaux. The dual tragedies—Hall’s death and now Lacy’s—have left residents mourning two lives intertwined by fate.

Local schools, where Lacy once starred, held moments of silence in his honor. Community leaders called for unity, urging reflection on the fragility of life. Lacy’s story remains a fixture in Thibodaux, a testament to both his triumphs and the consequences of choices.

Defining moments on the field

Kyren Lacy’s five-year college career was punctuated by milestones that showcased his talent:

  • 2020: Led Louisiana as a freshman with 28 catches and four touchdowns.
  • 2021: Helped win the Sun Belt Conference, scoring six touchdowns.
  • 2023: Posted two 100-yard games for LSU.
  • 2024: Topped the Tigers with nine touchdown receptions.

Draft dreams under pressure

The NFL Draft represents the pinnacle for college athletes, but it comes with intense scrutiny. Kyren Lacy was lauded for his route-running, ability to track deep balls, and red-zone prowess. Analysts saw him as a versatile receiver who could thrive in multiple offensive systems.

The December crash altered his trajectory. NFL teams, which weigh character alongside talent, began to hesitate. Missing the Combine was a setback, but Lacy’s Pro Day performance showed his determination to stay in the conversation. Scouts noted his physical tools, even as questions about his off-field decisions lingered.

Away from football, Lacy navigated public and personal challenges. A February social media post reading “Trust the process!!” drew mixed reactions—some saw it as resilience, others as tone-deaf given the case’s gravity. Balancing his draft aspirations with legal woes tested his resolve.

A complicated legacy

Kyren Lacy leaves behind a legacy that defies simple narratives. On the field, he was a dynamic playmaker whose highlight-reel catches electrified crowds. Coaches at LSU praised his discipline, noting his knack for mastering game plans and executing under pressure.

Off the field, Lacy’s story resonated with those who saw him rise from a small town to national prominence. His academic achievements underscored a drive that extended beyond athletics, preparing him for life after football.

Yet, his final months were marred by controversy. The accident and its aftermath raised questions about accountability, overshadowing his accomplishments. Lacy’s death closes a chapter filled with promise, reminding the sports world of the fine line athletes walk.

Tributes pour in

News of Lacy’s death prompted an outpouring of grief. Close friend Rontrell Sandolph shared a heartfelt post online, grappling with the loss. LSU teammates, including running back Josh Williams, recalled Lacy’s infectious energy in the locker room and on the field.

The NFL community, while quieter, acknowledged the tragedy. Scouts who watched Lacy at Pro Day expressed regret over a career cut short. As the draft looms from April 24-26, teams will move forward without a player who could have been a difference-maker.

In Louisiana, sports talk shows dedicated airtime to Lacy’s journey, balancing praise for his talent with somber discussion of recent events. Fans flooded online forums with messages for his family, alongside calls to respect their privacy during this time.

Key dates in Lacy’s journey

Kyren Lacy’s career unfolded through pivotal moments:

  • 2020: Debuted for Louisiana, leading the team in receptions.
  • 2021: Won the Sun Belt Conference with the Ragin’ Cajuns.
  • 2022: Joined LSU, beginning his Tigers tenure.
  • 2023: Scored seven touchdowns, emerging as a key target.
  • 2024: Posted a career-best 866 yards and nine touchdowns.
  • December 2024: Declared for the NFL Draft days after the crash.
  • January 2025: Faced charges and surrendered to authorities.
  • March 2025: Showcased skills at LSU’s Pro Day.

A void in the game

Kyren Lacy’s death leaves an unmistakable void. In Thibodaux, his name still adorns local fields, inspiring young athletes to dream big. His loss challenges LSU’s football program to rally, with coach Brian Kelly navigating questions about supporting players under pressure.

For the NFL, Lacy was a prospect with rare potential. His speed, reliable hands, and football IQ made him a candidate to shine at the next level. Even amid controversy, he remained a name to watch—until fate intervened.

Lacy’s family, steadfast through his highs and lows, now faces unimaginable grief. Friends describe a young man who stayed upbeat, convinced he could overcome his challenges. His absence will echo in the hearts of those who knew him and the fans who cheered his every catch.



Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *