Local law enforcement agencies provided assistance to many motorists during recent winter storm
Published 7:00 am Friday, January 19, 2018
Law enforcements agencies across Pearl River County and beyond responded to multiple vehicle crashes due to the recent rash of cold weather combined with precipitation.
According to a press release from the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the agency investigated 236 crashes and responded to 605 calls for roadside assistance statewide during Tuesday and Wednesday.
As a result of snow turning into ice and creating unsafe driving conditions, majority of the calls involved vehicles drifting off the road, drivers becoming stranded and disabled vehicles along state and federal highways, the release states.
“As the system continues to move through the state and road conditions remain dangerous, we urge motorists to make good decisions in regards to driving,” MHP Captain Johnny Poulous said in the release.
Picayune Police Department Assistant Chief Jeremy Magri, said the city’s department worked 23 vehicle crashes that occurred within Picayune. One vehicle crash resulted in minor injuries but no fatalities were reported.
Pearl River County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Shane Tucker, said the Sheriff’s Department responded to 27 calls between Tuesday and Wednesday. Tucker said majority of the calls involved vehicles sliding off the roads.
Poplarville Police Chief Butch Raby said the Police Department responded to two vehicle accidents in the last two days. He also said Poplarville residents did a good job of staying off the roads.