Brandon Jackson, West Point Cadet and Star Football Player, Killed in Crash

CROTON-ON-HUDSON, NY — A West Point cadet and football player died early Sunday morning in a one-car accident on Route 9.

Brandon Jackson, 20, was going south on Route 9 at about 1:50 a.m. when his vehicle hit a guardrail. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

"The Corps of Cadets is very saddened by the loss of their teammate, Cadet Brandon Jackson, who was a proud and committed member of Echo Company, 2nd Regiment," said Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. Diana Holland. "We extend our deepest sympathies to Brandon's family and friends during this most difficult time."

Jackson, a Queens resident, was a starting defensive back on the Army West Point football team, according to goarmywestpoint.com. He had turned in an impressive performance during Saturday's game with two solo tackles and one assist. His sudden death is being felt throughout his team and the athletic department.

"We will honor his life as we mourn the untimely death of a young man who had a promising future as a leader in service to our Nation." said Lt. Gen. Robert L. Caslen Jr., superintendent of the U. S. Military Academy, in a letter to the West Point community. "Brandon internalized our watch words, Duty, Honor, Country."

Jackson played in all 14 games since his arrival at West Point in 2015 and finished with 68 career tackles and three interceptions, two of which came against Wake Forest in 2015, according to goarmywestpoint.com.

The accident is under investigation.

PHOTO/ goarmywestpoint.com