Former Jackson State Defensive Back Levi Wyatt Jr. Killed in Late-Night Crash

Jackson State University is mourning the loss of senior defensive back Levi Eric Wyatt Jr., who was killed in a late-night vehicle crash near campus.

According to the Hinds County Coroner, Wyatt died following a two-vehicle collision that occurred near the intersection of North State Street and Belhaven Street in Jackson, Mississippi. Capitol Police responded to the scene at approximately 12:14 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 2, where officers discovered two heavily damaged vehicles. Investigators said Wyatt was driving a Chevrolet Camaro that also struck a nearby utility pole after the collision.

Wyatt suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger riding in Wyatt’s vehicle was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries. Authorities said the driver of the second vehicle involved in the crash was not injured.

The Hinds County Coroner indicated the crash occurred around 11:40 p.m. Friday night. The circumstances surrounding the collision remain under investigation by Capitol Police and the Mississippi Highway Patrol. Officials have not released additional information regarding the cause of the crash.

Wyatt arrived at Jackson State after transferring from McNeese State, where he established himself as one of the Southland Conference’s top defensive backs. During the 2024 season, he earned All-Southland Conference Second Team honors and was also recognized on Phil Steele’s All-Southland Conference Team.

In 12 games for McNeese State, Wyatt recorded 33 total tackles, two tackles for loss, eight pass breakups, and one forced fumble, showcasing his ability to make plays in the secondary. Before his collegiate career at McNeese, Wyatt played at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College after starring at Holmes County Central High School.

Wyatt was expected to make an impact for the Tigers this season as Jackson State prepared for the upcoming campaign.

The Jackson State football community, along with family, friends, and former teammates, now mourns the loss of a talented student-athlete whose life was tragically cut short. More information is expected to be released as the investigation into the crash continues.