Top NFL Draft Pick Involved in Fatal 2024 Car Crash

Rueben Bain Jr. was cited for careless driving in an accident that killed a passenger, but charges were later dropped.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:10pm

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An extreme close-up of a shattered car windshield reflecting the harsh light of a camera flash, conveying the gritty, investigative nature of a tragic accident scene.The aftermath of a fatal car crash involving a top NFL draft prospect exposes the harsh realities of off-field incidents in professional sports.Today in Miami

Rueben Bain Jr., a projected top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, was the driver in a fatal car crash in Miami in 2024 that killed one of his passengers, Destiny Betts. Bain was cited for careless driving but the charges were later dropped. The incident has been known to NFL teams during the pre-draft process.

Why it matters

This case raises questions about how NFL teams evaluate and handle prospects with past legal issues, especially those involving serious incidents like fatal car crashes. It also highlights the need for greater transparency around such cases and how they impact a player's draft stock.

The details

According to reports, the accident occurred on March 17, 2024 around 4 a.m. on Interstate 95 in Miami as Bain drove northbound with three Miami Hurricanes players as passengers, including Destiny Betts. Bain's vehicle rear-ended another car, veered into a concrete barrier, and ricocheted into another barrier before coming to a stop. Betts was taken to a trauma center and died on June 13, 2024 at the age of 22. Bain was cited for careless driving, but the charges were later dropped.

  • The accident occurred on March 17, 2024 around 4 a.m.
  • Destiny Betts died from her injuries on June 13, 2024.

The players

Rueben Bain Jr.

A projected top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft who was the driver in a fatal 2024 car crash in Miami.

Destiny Betts

A 22-year-old passenger in Bain's vehicle who died from injuries sustained in the 2024 car crash.

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What they’re saying

“At this time, we are not seeking public attention surrounding this tragedy and respectfully request that our family's privacy be honored. We also wish Mr. Bain the best as he continues his life and career.”

— Destiny Betts' family

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for NFL teams to thoroughly investigate a prospect's past and how they handle serious off-field incidents. It also raises questions about transparency and accountability when it comes to how these cases are ultimately resolved.