Samantha Barnum Obituary, Death – Authorities are investigating a tragic crash that claimed the life of a Tylertown woman following a collision involving a garbage truck in Pike County on Monday morning. The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) reported that the incident occurred around 9:00 a.m. on October 20, 2025, along Highway 98. According to the preliminary investigation, a 2019 Nissan Altima traveling west on the highway was involved in a collision with a 2017 Mack garbage truck.
Officials identified the driver of the Nissan as 33-year-old Samantha Barnum of Tylertown. Sadly, she did not survive the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene by responding authorities. Her next of kin have been notified.
Troopers said the driver and passenger of the garbage truck sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a nearby medical facility for evaluation and treatment. Both individuals are expected to recover.
Emergency responders, including local law enforcement and medical personnel, quickly arrived on-site to assist those involved and secure the area. The section of Highway 98 where the crash occurred was temporarily closed to allow officials to conduct their investigation and clear debris, leading to moderate traffic delays throughout the late morning hours.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol is leading the investigation to determine the events that led up to the collision. Investigators have not released details about possible contributing factors such as speed, road conditions, or visibility at the time of the crash. Authorities are urging any witnesses who may have seen the incident or the vehicles involved prior to the collision to come forward and share information that may assist the ongoing inquiry.
This section of Highway 98 has been the site of several crashes in recent years, with local residents expressing concerns about visibility and traffic volume along certain portions of the route. Officials have not yet stated whether any road design or environmental factors played a role in Monday’s incident.
In the wake of the tragedy, community members in Tylertown have expressed condolences to Barnum’s family, describing her as a caring and hardworking person who will be deeply missed. Friends and loved ones have shared memories of her kindness and positive spirit, saying her loss is being felt across the small town where she grew up.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol reminded drivers to remain alert behind the wheel, especially when driving near large vehicles such as garbage trucks and other commercial vehicles that often make frequent stops or wide turns. Officials stressed that staying aware of traffic conditions and maintaining safe following distances can help prevent such devastating accidents.
Investigators will continue gathering evidence and reviewing all available information, including witness statements and possible vehicle data, to determine the sequence of events that led to the collision. A full report will be released once the investigation is complete.
As of now, no citations or charges have been announced in connection with the crash. Authorities emphasized that the focus remains on determining what happened and providing closure to those affected.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol extended appreciation to the Pike County Sheriff’s Office, local fire departments, and emergency medical services for their quick response and coordination at the scene.
The investigation into this tragic event remains active, and further updates are expected as more details become available. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Mississippi Highway Patrol’s Troop M office.
Barnum’s passing marks another heartbreaking reminder of the importance of roadway safety. Her family and the Tylertown community continue to mourn her loss as officials work to uncover the circumstances surrounding the crash.
