Rueben Bain Jr., a projected first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, was involved in a car accident that led to the death of a passenger, according to reports released on 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 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.
The crash report noted that 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. No field sobriety tests were administered to the driver.
In a statement to The Read Optional, Betts’ family said: “As her family, we remain deeply committed to honoring her memory in a meaningful and appropriate way. 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.” They added: “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.”
Several league sources confirmed they were aware of the crash and were still looking into the details. 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.
