Levi Wyatt, a former Jackson State University defensive back, has died at the age of 23 following a two-vehicle car crash in Jackson, Mississippi.
Jackson State University is a historically Black institution in Jackson, Mississippi, and its football team competes in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
Mississippi Capitol Police said officers responded to reports of a collision near the intersection of North State Street and Belhaven Street in Jackson at approximately 12.14am on Saturday, August 1.
Officers arriving at the scene found two damaged vehicles, including a Chevrolet Camaro driven by Wyatt that had left the roadway and struck a nearby utility pole. Wyatt suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
A passenger in the Camaro was taken to a nearby hospital with life-threatening injuries. The driver of the second vehicle involved was uninjured. Capitol Police confirmed that an investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
Jackson State pays tribute
The Jackson State football program released a statement honoring the former Tiger. "The bond of this brotherhood does not end when the game clock expires," the statement began. "Today, we mourn the loss of our brother, Levi Wyatt."
"His memory will forever live within the halls of Jackson State Football and in the hearts of everyone who shared this journey with him," the team continued. "We ask the Tiger Nation to join us in lifting his family and loved ones in prayer during this incredibly difficult time. Rest easy, Tiger."
In a caption alongside the statement, which was posted on X, the program added: "There are some losses that words can never fully explain. Today, our hearts are with the family of Levi Wyatt. We grieve alongside his loved ones and our entire Tiger family as we remember a young man whose life touched ours in meaningful ways."
"May we find strength in one another, comfort in our memories, and peace in knowing he will always be part of Jackson State Football," the program concluded.
Family asks for privacy
Family friend Cara Payne Roberson shared a statement on Facebook on behalf of Wyatt's relatives, asking for privacy and prayers.
"With the permission of the family, I'm saddened to share that heaven gained an angel tonight. Levi Wyatt Jr. passed following an automobile accident. As expected, at this time the family is in shock and completely heartbroken," Roberson wrote.
"We ask that you hold phone calls at this time to his mother to allow her time to process this tragedy. We appreciate your prayers," she added.
A rising defensive back
Wyatt joined Jackson State in 2025 as a transfer from McNeese State, where he earned second-team All-Southland Conference honors in 2024 and helped lead the Tigers to the SWAC East Division Championship.
He played in all 12 games of the season, recording 12 tackles, including nine solo stops, along with four pass breakups.
