D.J. Hayden, an ex-NFL player, was murdered along with five people in a car accident in Houston on Saturday after a driver ran a red light. According to ESPN, the crash also killed the cornerback’s former University of Houston teammates, Zach McMillian and Ralph Oragwu. The driver who ran a red signal was also killed.
According to police, two people involved in the accident died from their injuries in a hospital, while four others were pronounced dead at the site. According to police, a woman was brought to the hospital with “life-threatening injuries.” Another person was stated to be on high alert and spoke with an investigator.
Jeffery Lewis, a former University of Houston player, reportedly suffered an injury but is recuperating. Hayden’s death comes after he revealed in 2012 that he had a tear in his heart as a result of a collision during practice. He was later drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 2013 NFL Draft.
“D.J.’s courage, perseverance, and dedication to his teammates will be fondly remembered by everyone who knew him,” the Raiders said in a statement on Saturday. “The prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with D.J.’s loved ones at this time.”
“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 University of Houston also said in a statement.
“We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, and loved ones, as we collectively mourn the loss of three individuals who made an indelible impact on each life they touched.”
