JONES COUNTY, Miss. — An 82-year-old man lost his life Friday evening after a head-on collision on U.S. Highway 11 near Crump Road in Moselle, authorities said. The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) identified the victim as Douglas J. Pertuit of Louin. The crash left three others injured and caused the highway to be closed for hours as emergency crews responded.
The collision occurred shortly after 6 p.m. when Pertuit was driving a 2019 Lincoln MKC southbound on U.S. 11. According to MHP, his vehicle collided with a northbound 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe. The Tahoe was carrying a man, a woman, and a toddler at the time of the crash. The impact was severe, and emergency responders worked quickly to assess the scene.
Pertuit was pronounced dead at the scene, MHP confirmed. The three occupants of the Tahoe were transported to a nearby hospital with moderate injuries, officials said. Their conditions were described as stable, but authorities did not provide further details. Witnesses reported seeing emergency crews tending to the injured and working to secure the wrecked vehicles.
The Jones County Fire Council said the highway was closed in both directions for several hours while crews removed debris and managed the crash scene. The closure caused traffic delays on U.S. 11, and drivers were advised to use alternate routes while emergency operations continued. Local residents expressed shock at the tragic accident in their community.
MHP said the crash remains under investigation. Officials have not yet released information on what may have caused the collision, including whether speed, distractions, or road conditions were factors. Investigators are examining the scene, reviewing evidence, and speaking with witnesses to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the deadly crash.
Head-on collisions like this one are among the most dangerous types of crashes, often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities. Authorities are urging drivers to remain cautious and attentive, especially on busy highways. Anyone with information about the crash is asked to contact MHP to assist with the investigation. The tragic death of Douglas J. Pertuit serves as a reminder of the dangers that can happen on the road in an instant.
