Collins, Mississippi – A devastating accident occurred near Collins Industrial Park and Okatoma Golf Course, resulting in the tragic death of Carl Dean Jordan, a 71-year-old resident of Laurel. The collision, which involved an 18-wheeler from Wayne-Sanderson Farms and a passenger vehicle, took place around midnight, sending shockwaves through the community.
The Covington County Coroner’s Office has identified Carl Dean Jordan as the driver of the 18-wheeler. The other driver, a male operating the passenger vehicle, has yet to be officially identified, pending DNA confirmation. Preliminary reports indicate that both drivers lost their lives instantly upon impact.
The crash scene has been described by Collins Police Chief Joey Ponder as one of the most challenging his officers have ever encountered. Emergency responders, including multiple agencies such as the Collins Fire Department and the Covington County Medical Examiner’s Office, worked diligently to manage the aftermath of the incident. Traffic along United States Route 49 was reduced to one northbound lane while the scene was being cleared, though the southbound lanes remained unaffected. Normal traffic flow was restored by 7:30 a.m. the following day.
As the investigation continues under the leadership of the Collins Police Department, authorities are working to determine the events that led to this tragic collision. The community is urged to stay informed through official channels as new information becomes available.
The loss of Carl Dean Jordan has deeply impacted the local community, and authorities have extended their condolences to the families of those involved. The investigation remains ongoing, with further updates expected as more details emerge.