Former LSU Wide Receiver Kyren Lacy Dies Ahead of Grand Jury Hearing in Fatal Hit-and-Run Case
**Baton Rouge, LA —** Former LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy has died, just one day before a grand jury was set to hear his case in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred earlier this year. The sudden and tragic development has shocked both the LSU community and the broader college football world.
Lacy, 23, was found dead in Houston, Texas, on Saturday night, according to law enforcement officials. Authorities have not released the cause of death, but an autopsy is underway. His death comes at a critical moment in his legal situation, as he was scheduled to appear before a grand jury on Monday in Baton Rouge to address his alleged role in a hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of a local pedestrian in early February.
The crash, which occurred near the LSU campus, left 26-year-old Jacob Thomas dead at the scene. Investigators later identified Lacy as a person of interest after surveillance footage and witness accounts placed a vehicle registered in his name near the incident at the time of the crash. In March, Lacy voluntarily met with police and retained legal counsel, maintaining his innocence and stating that he was not the driver at the time of the collision.
Despite his cooperation, prosecutors moved forward with assembling a case to present to a grand jury, which would determine whether formal charges would be brought against him. Legal analysts expected the case to hinge on forensic evidence and digital data from Lacy’s vehicle.
Lacy’s legal team released a statement early Sunday confirming his death and expressing sorrow at the situation:
> “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Kyren Lacy. He was a young man facing immense pressure but remained hopeful about clearing his name. Our thoughts are with his family during this unimaginable time.”
At LSU, the news hit especially hard. Lacy transferred to LSU from the University of Louisiana before the 2022 season and played two years with the Tigers. Known for his physical play style and competitive edge, he tallied over 600 receiving yards and six touchdowns during his time in Baton Rouge. While he had declared for the 2024 NFL Draft earlier this year, his legal troubles and the shadow of the hit-and-run incident had halted his professional aspirations.
LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly shared his condolences in a statement posted Sunday morning:
> “Kyren was a part of our football family. While recent months have been difficult for him, we choose to remember the passion, energy, and effort he brought to our program every day. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his loved ones.”
On social media, former teammates and fans posted messages of grief and disbelief. Several described Lacy as “more than an athlete” and remembered his mentorship and presence in the locker room. His sudden death has reignited conversations around mental health and the pressures faced by young athletes, particularly those navigating legal scrutiny in the public eye.
The Baton Rouge Police Department, which was overseeing the hit-and-run investigation, has not commented on whether Lacy’s death will affect the ongoing legal process or whether the case will be closed entirely. A spokesperson stated only that the department is aware of his passing and is coordinating with Texas authorities.
As the community mourns and searches for answers, Kyren Lacy’s story remains a complex and heartbreaking reminder of how quickly promising lives can take tragic turns. Once celebrated for his abilities on the football field, his legacy will now also carry the weight of unanswered questions and unresolved tragedy.
