Death News: LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly Remembers Kyren Lacy as “A Bright Star” Full of Energy and Love for Football, Following Apparent Suicide During Houston Police Chase
BATON ROUGE, La. – LSU Head Coach Brian Kelly delivered a somber and emotional statement on Tuesday, just three days after former LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy tragically passed away in an apparent suicide during a police chase in Houston, Texas. The news has sent shockwaves through the LSU community and beyond, prompting an outpouring of grief from teammates, coaches, fans, and friends.
Lacy, 23, who played two seasons for the Tigers after transferring from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, was remembered by Coach Kelly as “a bright star — full of energy, full of love for the game, and someone whose presence lit up every room he walked into.”
According to Houston police reports, Lacy was involved in a high-speed pursuit early Saturday morning. During the chase, he reportedly pulled over and exited his vehicle before taking his own life. Authorities are still investigating the details surrounding the incident, and no additional information has been released as of Tuesday afternoon.
Speaking to the media at LSU’s practice facility, Kelly’s voice wavered as he reflected on the young man whose life ended far too soon.
“Kyren wasn’t just a football player. He was a brother, a teammate, and a young man with big dreams and a bright future. He carried himself with a joy that was infectious. He loved the game, but more importantly, he loved the people around him. This is a heartbreaking loss,” Kelly said.
Lacy, a Thibodaux, Louisiana native, was a standout receiver at Thibodaux High School before committing to play college ball at Louisiana. After three strong seasons there, he transferred to LSU in 2022, where he became known for his big-play ability and strong hands. He appeared in 26 games for the Tigers and recorded several key touchdowns in critical matchups.
Fellow LSU teammates and alumni have shared tributes on social media, with many describing Lacy as “a light” and “a fierce competitor with a kind soul.” Quarterback Jayden Daniels, a close friend of Lacy’s, posted, “Rest easy, brother. You always had my back on and off the field. I wish we had more time.”
In a written statement released by LSU Athletics, the university expressed condolences to Lacy’s family and urged any students or staff struggling with mental health to reach out for help.
“We mourn the loss of Kyren Lacy, a beloved member of our football family and our university. We ask for privacy and prayers for his loved ones as they navigate this unimaginable tragedy.”
Coach Kelly emphasized the importance of mental health awareness, stating, “We have to keep having these conversations. We have to be there for our young people—not just as athletes, but as human beings. If you’re struggling, speak up. If you know someone hurting, reach out.”
Funeral arrangements for Kyren Lacy have not yet been announced. LSU is planning a tribute during the team’s spring game this weekend, where they will honor his memory on the field he loved so deeply.
In the wake of this tragedy, the LSU community mourns a young man who brought passion and light to those around him—a bright s
tar, gone far too soon.
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