Top NFL Draft Prospect Rueben Bain Linked to Fatal 2024 Crash

A projected top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft is at the centre of controversy after reports emerged linking him to a deadly traffic collision. Rueben Bain Jr., the Miami Hurricanes edge rusher, was involved in a crash on Interstate 95 in March 2024 that resulted in the death of 22-year-old Destiny Betts, according to a police report.

The incident occurred in the early hours of March 17, 2024. Bain was driving a black Land Rover at approximately 4 a.m. when the vehicle clipped another car and struck concrete barriers on both sides of the freeway. Four passengers were in the car at the time, including two of Bain's Miami teammates.

One passenger, Destiny Betts from Georgia, suffered incapacitating injuries and was rushed to Ryder Trauma Center at Jackson Memorial. She never recovered. After spending three months in a coma, Betts died on June 13, 2024.

A police report cited by The Read Optional newsletter described Bain's driving as careless or negligent. No sobriety test was administered at the scene. The reckless driving charge was dismissed by a court in June 2024, two weeks before Betts passed away.

In a statement provided to the newsletter, Betts' family offered a measured response. "Destiny's passing was the result of a tragic accident that occurred several years ago," the family said. "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."

Bain, who spent three seasons at Miami, is currently projected 10th overall in Yahoo Sports' latest mock draft. League sources indicate NFL teams are aware of the incident and are conducting their own investigations. It remains unclear whether the revelation will impact his draft stock when teams make their selections later this month.