Tragic Car Accident Claims Lives of Former Football Player and Five Others in Houston

In a devastating incident, a fatal car crash occurred in Houston resulting in the loss of six lives. Among them was D J Hayden, a former American football player, aged 33. The collision took place during the early hours of Saturday, when a Chrysler 300 reportedly disregarded a red light and collided with an SUV. Hayden, known for his career as an NFL cornerback, played for various teams including the Oakland Raiders, Detroit Lions, Jacksonville Jaguars, and most recently, the Washington Commanders in 2021. Born in Houston, he had previously excelled as a player at the University of Houston. The crash took place in central Houston at approximately 2am local time (8am UK time), resulting in the tragic deaths of five men and one woman. Alongside Hayden, former teammates cornerback Zach McMillian and Ralph Oragwu, both also University of Houston football players, lost their lives in the accident, while another former university football player was injured. University of Houston Athletics expressed their profound grief, stating, "The entire University of Houston community is heartbroken over the tragic passing of former football student-athletes D J Hayden, Zachary McMillian, and Ralph Oragwu earlier today, and our thoughts and prayers remain with Jeffery Lewis in his recovery ahead." The victims also included the Chrysler's driver and an unidentified homeless man. The Las Vegas Raiders (formerly Oakland Raiders) paid tribute to Hayden, acknowledging his courage, perseverance, and dedication to his teammates. The Houston Police Assistant Chief, Megan Howard, revealed that the Chrysler was traveling at a high velocity during the collision. Four individuals died at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. A female passenger from the SUV remains in critical condition. Investigations are underway to identify the SUV's driver, and the police have interviewed a male passenger from the vehicle. Hayden had previously survived a life-threatening injury in 2012, when he suffered a tear to a major vein near his heart during a practice session. After undergoing emergency surgery, he made a remarkable recovery, eventually being selected for the Oakland Raiders in the 2013 draft. Our heartfelt condolences go out to the families and loved ones affected by this tragic accident.