Kyren Lacy, a former Louisiana State University (LSU) wide receiver, tragically died by suicide in the Houston area, prompting a heartfelt message from his father and raising concerns about mental health within the sports community.
Kenny Lacy shared an emotional statement on Facebook hours after news of his son’s death became public. “Young parents, prioritize open communication with your children from a young age, fostering an environment where they feel comfortable confiding in you,” he wrote. He emphasized the importance of recognizing subtle signs of distress and not dismissing responses like “I’m alright” when something feels amiss.
“Mental Health is real, and for the most part, it’s invisible, don’t ignore the signs, even if they may seem small.”
His message continued, expressing profound grief while acknowledging faith: “Our lives have changed forever and this will never be ok, but God needed my baby more than he was needed here. This has to be the biggest pill our families have had to swallow but I know the love and compassion in our families will get us through. This will never get easier, but we’ll learn to live with it.” Lacy urged others to actively check on their children’s mental well-being.
The Harris County Sheriff’s Office provided details surrounding the events leading up to Lacy’s death. According to officials, deputies were initially dispatched after receiving a report of an argument involving Lacy and a family member, during which he allegedly discharged a firearm into the ground. Lacy then reportedly fled the scene.
A subsequent pursuit ensued as deputies attempted to stop him, ultimately ending when Lacy crashed his vehicle in Spring, Texas. Upon removing him from the wreckage, authorities discovered a self-inflicted gunshot wound and pronounced him dead at the scene.
“Harris County Sheriff’s Office Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Units conducted an investigation of the incident,” a statement confirmed. “Preliminary information indicates Lacy shot himself during the pursuit and prior to the vehicle crashing.”
A handgun was recovered from the vehicle, and a review of body camera footage showed no shots fired by law enforcement after the pursuit concluded. The case has been referred to the Harris County District Attorney’s Office Civil Rights Division for standard review following any death occurring during an attempted arrest. Lacy was 24 years old.
Lacy’s life had been marked by legal challenges prior to his passing. He was already under investigation in Louisiana regarding a December crash that resulted in the death of a 78-year-old man. Authorities allege Lacy was driving recklessly, leading to the fatal collision and fleeing the scene without providing assistance. An arrest warrant was issued for negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run, and reckless operation of a vehicle. A grand jury hearing regarding this case had been scheduled for Monday.
The young athlete, who graduated from LSU in December and was considered a potential NFL Draft pick, leaves behind a legacy of talent overshadowed by tragedy.
* Lacy’s father urged parents to prioritize open communication about mental health with their children.
* Authorities reported Lacy allegedly discharged a firearm before leading deputies on a car chase.
* He faced charges related to a fatal crash in Louisiana prior to his death.
