Driver of 18-wheeler identified after fatal crash on I-59 in Forrest Co.

On May 3, 2024By Vaseline

FORREST COUNTY, Miss. (WDAM) – An 18-wheeler crash on Interstate 59 in Forrest County turned fatal Thursday morning, according to emergency officials.

Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop J Public Affairs Officer Sgt. Taylor Shows confirmed one person was killed in the crash, and the North Forrest Volunteer Fire Department says the deceased was the driver.

Forrest County Coroner Lisa Klem confirmed the identity of the deceased as 21-year-old Khalil Griffith of Mount Olive.

Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop J Public Affairs Officer Sgt. Taylor Shows has confirmed... — Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop J Public Affairs Officer Sgt. Taylor Shows has confirmed that one person has died following the crash.(Brandy McGill)

According to a traffic alert from the Mississippi Department of Transportation, a vehicle fire occurred at 6:59 a.m. on I-59 S past Monroe Road exit 73 at the 71-mile marker.

NFVFD says first responders saw heavy fire coming from the cab of the 18-wheeler, which was carrying a load of metal pipes. The fire brigade spent several hours extinguishing the fire.

Around 7:12 a.m., MDOT reported that traffic was heavy and it might take about three hours for traffic to resume.

NFVFD says MHP and Forrest County Fire Services units are still at the scene of the crash.

According to MDOT, the right lane on I-59 S past Monroe Road exit 73 is currently blocked. Motorists are asked to use caution and be prepared to stop as visibility is poor in the area.

Updates will be added as more information becomes available.

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