“Heartbreak and Revelation: Kyren Lacy’s Father Speaks Out Amidst Tragedy”

In a tragic twist that underscores the pressure faced by young athletes in today’s spotlight, former LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy was found dead in Houston at just 24 years old, an incident that has shaken the sports community and raised vital questions about mental health. Lacy’s untimely passing has been reported as a suspected suicide, just days before he was set to face serious legal challenges related to a hit-and-run car crash that claimed the life of a 78-year-old man. His father, Kenny Lacy, took to social media to share a heartfelt message urging parents to foster open dialogue about mental health with their children, emphasizing that signs of distress can often be subtle and easily overlooked. As we reflect on Kyren’s story, reminding ourselves of both the intense ambitions and the daunting burdens carried by young dreams is crucial. What can we learn from this heart-wrenching situation about the importance of mental wellness and the severe implications of public scrutiny? This is a call for us all to listen more closely and act with compassion. LEARN MORE

The father of Kyren Lacy responded to the former LSU wide receiver’s death.

Lacy was found dead in Houston on Saturday at age 24. WAFB reported his death as a suspected suicide. The NFL Draft prospect was scheduled to begin a grand jury hearing for his alleged role in a fatal hit-and-run car crash on Monday.

His father, Kenny Lacy, posted a heart-wrenching message Sunday on Facebook.

“Young parents, start talking to your kids at a very early age and make sure they are confident and comfortable confiding in you,” he wrote. “Don’t be cool with ‘I’m Alright’ or ‘I’m good’ when you know deep down something isn’t right. Mental Health is real, and for the most part, it’s invisible. Don’t ignore the signs, even if they may seem small.”

Lacy registered 866 receiving yards and nine touchdowns during his third and final season at LSU. The former Louisville transfer was poised to pursue an NFL career before facing charges of negligent homicide, felony hit-and-run with death, and reckless operation of a vehicle.

On Dec. 17, Lacy allegedly fled the scene of a crash that killed a 78-year-old man. He was released on bail after turning himself in to police in January.

“Our lives have changed forever and this will never be OK, but God needed my baby more than he was needed here,” Kenny Lacy continued. “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.”

According to WDSU-TV’s Travers Mackel, Lacy’s attorney released a statement saying they were “very confident” the district attorney would decline to pursue charges formally. 

“Kyren was a young man with immense promise, and he was crushed under the weight of an irresponsible and prejudiced process,” Matthew Ory said.

Ory condemned the”deeply biased” coverage and “negative barrage” of commentary Lacy faced on social media before his death.

“There was never a presumption of innocence, which was exemplified by the NFL pulling his draft card over mere accusations without affording him the slightest chance to defend himself,” Ory said. “The pressure and perception likely become unbearable.”

Related: Tributes Pour In After Death Of NFL Draft Prospect Kyren Lacy