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This article discusses sensitive topics related to suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please reach out for support by contacting the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
Former LSU Tigers wide receiver Kyren Lacy was found dead following a police chase in Texas on Saturday night. Authorities confirmed that Lacy suffered a self-inflicted gunshot wound.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office reported receiving a call regarding Lacy, who was involved in a dispute with a family member. During this altercation, he reportedly discharged a firearm into the ground. Upon learning that Lacy had fled the scene, deputies initiated a search.
When deputies attempted to stop Lacy’s vehicle, he led them on a long pursuit. The chase concluded when Lacy crashed his vehicle in Spring, Texas.
Upon approaching the vehicle, deputies extracted Lacy from it to effect an arrest. Unfortunately, they discovered he had sustained a self-inflicted gunshot wound and he was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office.
In a statement, the sheriff’s office indicated that preliminary findings suggested Lacy shot himself during the chase, prior to the crash. A handgun was recovered from the vehicle’s interior. Investigators reviewed body camera and dashcam footage from the responding units, which showed no shots fired after the pursuit ended.
Following standard procedure, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office will send the completed homicide investigation to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office Civil Rights Division for further review.
Lacy’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief across the sports community. He was just 24 years old at the time of his passing. In a heartfelt statement, LSU expressed their sorrow: ‘We are 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 young athlete had recently graduated in December and was considered a potential candidate for the upcoming NFL Draft. However, he had ongoing legal troubles linking him to a fatal crash in Louisiana that resulted in the death of a 78-year-old man back in December.
Lacy faced accusations of reckless driving, including speeding and violating no-passing zone regulations. Authorities indicated that the crash occurred when another motorist swerved to evade him, resulting in a collision with another vehicle.
Following the incident, Lacy did not call for assistance and fled the scene, prompting Louisiana State Police to issue an arrest warrant for him. The charges included negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run, and reckless operation of a vehicle.
In recent developments, it was reported that a grand jury was scheduled to review evidence related to Lacy’s case on the following Monday.
Lacy made his way to LSU in 2022 and enjoyed his most productive season in 2024, finishing with 58 catches for 866 yards and nine touchdowns. His potential in football was considerable, but personal troubles ultimately overshadowed his athletic achievements.
In light of these tragic events, it is essential to address the importance of mental health support, particularly in high-pressure environments like professional sports. The inquiry into Lacy’s conduct leading up to his death serves as a somber reminder of the complexities athletes face.
Many in the sports community continue to mourn Lacy’s untimely death, highlighting the void left by his passing. His life and career serve as a poignant reminder of the need to prioritize mental health and emotional well-being for all.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
