Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Rashee Rice is facing criticism for his lack of accountability nearly a year after being involved in a multi-vehicle hit-and-run in Dallas.
The former SMU standout is still awaiting eight criminal charges to be presented to a Dallas County grand jury, which will determine whether the case moves forward.
Without an indictment or a “no bill,” both Rice and the victims—who are pursuing legal action—remain in a state of uncertainty.
Amid this delay, one lawyer involved in the civil case claimed that Rice’s status and the influence of his legal counsel, who have ties to state politics, have had an “undue influence” on the case.
Kyler Coker, representing the company that rented one of the totaled vehicles, criticized the delay and pointed to the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office as responsible for the hold-up.
“If this were anyone other than a football player who hired a state senator, this situation would have played out very differently,” Coker said. “I don’t want people to forget about it, and I don’t want him to get away with this.”
A spokeswoman for the District Attorney’s office declined to comment on the case, citing its pending status, according to The Dallas Morning News.
Two vehicles were linked to 23-year-old Rashee Rice in connection with the crash. Both vehicles were speeding on the expressway when they lost control, leading to a collision with four other cars. The six occupants of the two vehicles fled the scene before authorities arrived.
Rice and SMU cornerback Teddy Knox were identified as the drivers of the vehicles involved in the March 30 crash.
The cars involved were a Lamborghini SUV, which Rice had leased, and a Corvette.
Police reports indicate that four individuals sustained minor injuries in the accident.
On April 3, Rashee Rice publicly apologized to the victims and took responsibility for the crash. His attorney also stated that the Chiefs star would “do anything in his power” to help restore normalcy to the victims’ lives.
However, representatives for the victims have claimed that Rice has not yet followed through on his public commitments.
“Mr. Rice has offered absolutely nothing to make amends,” said Marc Lenahan, attorney for an Uber passenger injured in the crash. “Mr. Rice has apologized, but his lack of action raises questions about whether his apology is sincere or simply a manipulative and cynical ploy.”
State Senator Royce West, who represents Rice, dismissed the attorney’s claims as false but chose not to elaborate on when Rice last contacted the victims. West emphasized that the case is still pending and it would be inappropriate to address it in the media.
“What happened was unfortunate, and we are doing everything we can to ensure the victims are treated fairly,” West stated. “We’re seeking solutions, not fame.”
The Kansas City Chiefs have not yet commented on whether Rice will face disciplinary action. Meanwhile, NFL spokesman Brian McCarthy confirmed that the incident is still under review.
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