Arrest Warrant Issued for NFL Draft Prospect Jalen Carter in Fatal Crash

Police in Athens-Clarke County have released an arrest warrant for NFL draft prospect Jalen Carter in connection with an investigation into a crash that occurred in January that claimed the life of a Georgia football player and recruiting staffer.

The investigation uncovered that Carter and Chandler LeCroy - the recruiting staffer - were driving their vehicles in a manner consistent with racing just prior to the incident. LeCroy's vehicle was allegedly travelling at 104 mph, over double the posted speed limit of 40 mph.

As a result, Carter is now facing charges of reckless driving and racing - both misdemeanours.

Athens police stated that they had been in touch with representatives of NFL draft prospect Quinn Carter, and that it was expected that he turn himself in. This follows news that he had been scheduled to address the media at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis on Wednesday morning, although he did not do so. When contacted for comment, Carter's agent did not respond to an email. Carter is projected to be chosen in the first five picks of the draft.

"The charges presented today are extremely worrying, especially since we are still attempting to come to terms with the tragic deaths of two cherished members of our community," Georgia football coach Kirby Smart said in a statement. "We will remain in accordance with the authorities while standing by these families and analyzing what we can learn from this awful situation."

At around 2:45 a.m. ET on Jan. 15, south of Athens, Georgia, a crash occurred. Police reported that the cars that were driven by LeCroy and Carter were exchanging lanes, going in different directions, and traveling at an accelerated speed before the crash. LeCroy's 2021 Ford Expedition crashed into two utility poles and two trees, ultimately settling down near an apartment.

LeCroy had an alcohol concentration of .197, far higher than the legally allowed .08 in Georgia. Police noted that alcohol use, racing, reckless driving and speed played a major role in the accident. Two other occupants of LeCroy's vehicle were injured - Georgia offensive lineman Warren McClendon and recruiting staff member Victoria Bowles.

Carter, 21, is predicted to be a top-five pick in the upcoming NFL draft. An ESPN report mentioned that he had plans to conduct interviews at the NFL scouting combine this week, but won't be participating in any team workout sessions.