Patrol reports one fatality over July 4 holiday weekend
July 7, 2025 – The Fourth of July holiday was a relatively safe one on Mississippi highways with just one fatality reported during the holiday weekend, according to the Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP).
The fatal accident took place in Simpson County on Sunday afternoon, July 6. At approximately 12:20 p.m., troopers responded to a two-vehicle crash on state Highway 28.
A 2004 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by 22-year-old Jadarrian Burton of Prentiss was traveling east when it collided with a 2020 Ford F-150 driven by 77-year-old Judith Polk of Prentiss. The truck had a passenger, identified as 48-year-old John Polk, also of Prentiss. The truck was traveling west on the state highway.
Both occupants of the Ford were taken to Magee General Hospital with unknown injuries. Burton received fatal injuries from the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.
During the weekend from Friday, July 3, at 12 midnight to Sunday, July 6 at 12 midnight, the Highway Patrol issued a total of 4,818 citations, made 74 arrests for impaired driving, and cited 577 motorists for seat belt or restraint violations. MHP also investigated 90 crashes resulting in 34 injuries, with the one fatal crash in Simpson County resulting in one death.
Independence Day Holiday Travel Period Statistics (Overview):
2025 Independence Day Holiday Travel Totals
- Citations – 4,818
- Seatbelt and Child Restraint – 577
- DUI’s – 74
- Crashes – 90
- Fatal Crashes – 1
- Fatalities – 1
- Motorist Assist – 68
2024 Independence Day Holiday Travel Totals
- Citations –. 6,474
- Seatbelt and Child Restraint – 876
- DUI’s – 149
- Crashes – 141
- Fatal Crashes – 4
- Fatalities – 4
- Motorist Assist – 76
