Army Cornerback Brandon Jackson Killed In One-Car Accident

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Tragedy struck the Army football program on Sunday morning.

Cornerback Brandon Jackson was killed in a single-car accident in Croton, New York, just hours after the Black Knights had defeated Rice at Michie Stadium in West Point, the military academy announced Monday.

Jackson, a native of Queens and a member of the academy's class of 2019, was 20.

"Words cannot describe the grief that our team is feeling over the loss of our brother and friend, Brandon," Army coach Jeff Monken said in a statement. "He was a beloved teammate and our hearts are with his family at this time of tragedy."

Jackson, a sophomore, appeared in every game last season, and led the Black Knights with three interceptions. He had six tackles in two games this season for Army, which is off to its first 2-0 start in 20 years.

While academy officials said the preliminary investigation is ongoing, Croton-on-Hudson police reportedly said the vehicle Jackson was in struck a guard rail. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

"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," Lt. Gen. Robert L. Caslen Jr., superintendent of the U.S. Military Academy, wrote in a letter to the West Point community. "Brandon internalized our watch words, Duty, Honor, Country."

Army is scheduled to face Texas-El Paso this Saturday night on the road.

"We are heartbroken for Brandon's family, the team and all those who had the pleasure of knowing him," Army West Point athletic director Boo Corrigan said. "We will always remember Brandon for his kindness and do our best to honor his memory."