Racism, Social Media, & the Tragedy of Kyren Lacy

How a familiar narrative, amplified online, helped strip a young man of dignity, context, and hope

Every now and then, an event occurs that is a merciless reminder that the world we live in is a place that lacks compassion and is fueled by anger and hatred. Last year, LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy was on a path to realize his dreams. He was a standout player at a university that churns out NFL talent, and was likely going to be selected in the Draft. His career and his life were derailed by a car accident in December 2024, which ultimately led to him dying by suicide in April 2025.

The accident resulted in the death of a man named Herman Hall, and Lacy was charged in January 2025 of negligent homicide. The rhetoric and commentary that ensued from that moment until Lacy’s death were defined by presumptions fueled by racism, and the shattering of a young man before all the facts in the case were revealed. The investigation is ongoing, but the court of public opinion had already presumed his guilt. His name was dragged through the mud, inflicting unquantifiable mental damage to a young man who was watching his world crumble before his eyes.

Videos that have been released in recent days (thanks to the work and commitment of Lacy’s attorney, Matthew Ory) have cast doubt on his guilt in this case outside of reckless…