Former NFL Player D.J. Hayden Among Six Killed in Houston Car Accident

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

D.J. Hayden, former cornerback for the Las Vegas Raiders, tragically lost his life in a car accident in Houston at the age of 33, the Raiders announced on Saturday. The Houston police confirmed that the fatal crash occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Born and raised in Houston, Hayden began his football career at the University of Houston, where he played college football. Sadly, another former University of Houston football player, Zach McMillian, also lost his life in the same accident.

Hayden’s journey captured the attention of the sports world over a decade ago when he miraculously survived a life-threatening heart injury during a full-pads practice at the University of Houston. Despite this setback, he went on to become a first-round NFL Draft pick in 2013, chosen by the Raiders as the 12th overall pick.

“The Raiders Family is mourning the tragic loss of former cornerback D.J. Hayden,” expressed the Raiders in a heartfelt statement. “D.J.’s courage, perseverance, and dedication to his teammates will be fondly remembered by everyone who knew him. The prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with D.J.’s loved ones at this time.”

According to the Houston Police Department, the accident was reported around 2 a.m. and involved two vehicles—a Chrysler 300 and an Acura SUV. Investigations revealed that the driver of the Chrysler 300 was at fault, as the vehicle was speeding and ran a red light. Sadly, four individuals were pronounced dead at the scene, while four others were rushed to a nearby hospital. Tragically, two of the hospitalized victims later succumbed to their injuries.

The police identified the deceased as five males, one of whom was believed to be homeless, and one female. Further details regarding the incident have not been disclosed, as an ongoing investigation is currently underway.

In addition to Hayden and McMillian, another former University of Houston football player, Ralph Oragwu, also lost his life in the crash. Oragwu, who played as an offensive lineman for the university from 2009 to 2013, was confirmed as one of the victims.

The University of Houston expressed their deep sorrow over the tragic passing of Hayden, McMillian, and Oragwu, 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. 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.”

During his nine-year NFL career, Hayden played for the Raiders, Detroit Lions, and Jacksonville Jaguars. In 2021, he also spent time on Washington’s practice squad. Throughout his career, Hayden achieved 4.5 sacks and four interceptions.

The tragic loss of D.J. Hayden has left the football community and fans in shock. His remarkable journey and unwavering dedication to the sport will be remembered by all who had the privilege of witnessing his career..