Kyren Lacy, a former wide receiver for Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers, tragically died Saturday night following an incident involving a police chase in Harris County, Texas. Authorities confirmed that he was found with a gunshot wound deemed self-inflicted.
According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were initially dispatched after receiving reports of a disturbance where Lacy allegedly discharged a firearm into the ground during an argument with a family member. Following this incident, Lacy reportedly fled the scene.
A subsequent search led to law enforcement attempting to initiate a traffic stop. Lacy, however, refused to comply and engaged in a prolonged vehicle pursuit spanning several miles before ultimately crashing his car in Spring, Texas.
After removing Lacy from the damaged vehicle, deputies discovered he had sustained what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
“Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Units conducted an investigation,” a statement released by the sheriff’s office indicated. “Preliminary information suggests Lacy shot himself during the pursuit prior to the vehicle crash. A handgun was recovered from inside the car. Review of body camera footage revealed no shots were fired by deputies after the pursuit concluded.”
The case is being reviewed as standard procedure, with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office Civil Rights Division expected to examine the findings following completion of the homicide investigation.
Lacy, age 24, was a rising prospect in the football world. LSU expressed their condolences:
“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.”
His promising career was overshadowed by a separate ongoing legal matter in Louisiana. In January, officials revealed that Lacy was under investigation following a December collision where a 78-year-old man died. Lacy was accused of reckless driving—exceeding the speed limit and illegally passing—when the other motorist attempted to avoid him, resulting in a crash.
According to Louisiana State Police, Lacy left the scene without offering assistance. An arrest warrant had been issued for charges including negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run, and reckless operation of a vehicle.
- Negligent Homicide
- Felony Hit-and-Run
- Reckless Operation of a Vehicle
A grand jury was scheduled to review evidence in this case on Monday.
Lacy transferred to LSU in 2022 and had a standout season in 2023, recording 58 receptions for 866 yards and nine touchdowns. He was considered a potential selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.
