Kyren Lacy, a former LSU wide receiver and NFL Draft prospect, has tragically passed away at the age of 24. Lacy was found dead Saturday night in Houston, an LSU official confirmed to ESPN on Sunday. The cause of death has not yet been publicly disclosed.
“We’re saddened to learn of the tragic passing of former LSU Football student-athlete Kyren Lacy. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones, as well as his former teammates and coaches impacted by his passing,” the university said in a statement.
Lacy’s death comes amid ongoing legal proceedings involving a December 2023 car crash that resulted in the death of a 78-year-old man.
According to Louisiana State Police, Lacy was allegedly driving a Dodge Charger at high speeds in a no-passing zone on Highway 20 when his maneuvering contributed to a chain-reaction crash. The collision ultimately took the life of Herman Hall, a passenger in one of the vehicles involved.
Authorities charged Lacy with negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run involving death, and reckless operation of a vehicle. He turned himself in on January 12 and was released on $151,000 bail. A grand jury was set to begin hearing evidence related to the case this week.
Lacy’s attorney, Matthew Ory, shared that the late athlete had been cooperating with authorities and challenged the investigation’s conduct. “It is with profound sorrow that we confirm the tragic passing of Kyren Lacy,” Ory said in a statement to ESPN. “We will be demanding a full and transparent review of how this investigation was conducted and why.”
Just days after the crash, on December 19, Lacy declared for the 2024 NFL Draft and did not participate in LSU’s victory over Baylor in the Texas Bowl. Though once projected as high as the No. 6 wide receiver prospect in the draft by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr., Lacy had fallen out of the top 10 rankings in the weeks leading up to the draft. He took part in LSU’s Pro Day in March, continuing his bid for a professional football career.
Lacy had transferred to LSU after beginning his college career at the University of Louisiana. In his three seasons with the Tigers, he steadily developed into a key offensive weapon. His breakout came during the 2023 season, when he recorded 58 receptions for 866 yards and led the team with nine touchdowns.
Born and raised in Louisiana, Lacy was not only admired for his athleticism on the field but also for his infectious energy and dedication to the game. News of his death has left the LSU football community and fans around the country in mourning.
Photo Credit: Instagram – KyrenLacy_2
