LSU Star Receiver's Suicide After False Homicide Charge

Lawsuit claims Louisiana State Police fabricated evidence that drove Kyren Lacy to take his own life

Apr. 16, 2026 at 5:24pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football field, with players and equipment broken down into sharp, overlapping shapes and planes, conveying the chaos and tragedy of Kyren Lacy's false accusation and untimely death.The false homicide charges against Kyren Lacy tragically cut short a promising football career, exposing the human cost of police misconduct.Houston Today

Kyren Lacy, a standout wide receiver at Louisiana State University and NFL prospect, died by suicide in April 2025 after being falsely charged with negligent homicide. A lawsuit filed by his family claims Louisiana State Police fabricated evidence that led to Lacy's arrest and public condemnation, destroying his athletic career and driving him to take his own life just days before the NFL draft.

Why it matters

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact that false accusations and malicious prosecution can have, especially on young athletes with promising futures. It raises questions about police misconduct, the need for thorough investigations, and the mental health challenges faced by those wrongfully accused.

The details

Lacy was arrested in January 2025 for a fatal car crash that killed a 78-year-old man. Police claimed Lacy was recklessly passing other vehicles at high speed, causing the crash. But video evidence later showed Lacy had already returned to his lane before the collision occurred. The lawsuit alleges police fabricated witness statements and misrepresented the positions of the vehicles.

  • On Dec. 17, 2024, the fatal car crash occurred.
  • On Jan. 12, 2025, Lacy was arrested and charged with negligent homicide.
  • On April 11, 2025, a prosecutor's investigation cleared Lacy of wrongdoing.
  • On April 12, 2025, Lacy died by suicide, one day after being cleared.
  • The NFL draft was scheduled for April 24-26, 2025.

The players

Kyren Lacy

A 24-year-old standout wide receiver at Louisiana State University and NFL prospect who died by suicide after being falsely accused of negligent homicide.

Louisiana State Trooper Tyler Werner

One of the defendants named in the lawsuit, accused of fabricating evidence that led to Lacy's arrest and prosecution.

Sgt. Lehman Howard

One of the defendants named in the lawsuit, accused of fabricating evidence that led to Lacy's arrest and prosecution.

Herman Hall

The 78-year-old man who was killed in the car crash that led to Lacy's false arrest.

Rocky Arceneaux

Lacy's agent, who issued a statement criticizing the NFL for revoking Lacy's Combine invitation without considering the facts.

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What they’re saying

“To the NFL, shame on you for revoking Kyren's Combine invitation without acknowledgment or consideration of the facts. As stated by his attorney, there was a high probability the felony charge of negligent homicide would have been declined by a grand jury this past Monday.”

— Rocky Arceneaux, Lacy's agent

“One day everybody loved him, and then the next day everybody hated him.”

— Cydney Theard, Lacy's girlfriend

What’s next

The lawsuit filed by Lacy's family against the Louisiana State Police is ongoing, and the details of the case are expected to be closely scrutinized as it proceeds through the legal system.

The takeaway

This tragic case highlights the devastating impact that false accusations and police misconduct can have, especially on young athletes with promising futures. It underscores the urgent need for thorough investigations, accountability, and greater support for those wrongfully accused to prevent such heartbreaking outcomes.