Former Miami defensive end Rueben Bain Jr., a projected first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, was involved in a car accident that left one person dead, according to reports released Sunday.
Documents obtained by The Read Optional state that the incident occurred at approximately 4 a.m. on March 17, 2024, on Interstate 95 in Miami.
Bain, 21, was reportedly driving an SUV with three passengers — teammates Wesley Bissainthe and Nyjalik Kelly, and a woman identified as Destiny Betts — when he rear-ended another vehicle and struck several concrete barriers.
According to the crash report, Betts, 22 at the time, sustained severe injuries and remained in a coma for nearly three months before she died on June 13, 2024.
Bain was cited for careless driving at the scene, but the charges were dropped prior to Betts’ death. The reports noted that no field sobriety tests were administered to the driver following the crash.
“As her family, we remain deeply committed to honoring her memory in a meaningful and appropriate way,” Betts’ family said in a statement to The Read Optional. “Destiny’s passing was the result of a tragic accident that occurred several years ago. While the loss remains incredibly painful for our family, we have worked hard to find peace and move forward.”
“At this time, we are not seeking public attention surrounding this tragedy and respectfully request that our family’s privacy be honored. We also wish Mr. Bain the best as he continues his life and career,” the statement added.
Several league sources confirmed they were aware of the crash and were still looking into the details, according to the outlet. At this stage, it is unclear how it will affect where Bain is selected in the draft.
Bain’s junior season included 9.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles for loss, helping Miami reach the national title game.
He is expected to be a top selection in the NFL Draft, which starts April 23 in Pittsburgh.
