Authorities have identified the man who lost his life in a tragic traffic collision Friday evening in Jones County, Mississippi, a crash that has left a community grieving and several others recovering from injuries.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) confirmed that the victim was 82-year-old Douglas J. Pertuit of Louin. The crash occurred shortly after 6 p.m. along U.S. Highway 11 near Crump Road in Moselle, an area frequently traveled by local residents.
According to MHP, Pertuit was driving a 2019 Lincoln MKC southbound on U.S. Highway 11 when it was involved in a head-on collision with a 2019 Chevrolet Tahoe traveling northbound. Inside the Tahoe were a male driver, a woman, and a toddler. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene following reports of the crash.
Despite rapid response efforts, Pertuit was pronounced dead at the scene, officials said. The three occupants of the Tahoe were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities described their injuries as moderate, and no further updates on their conditions were released as of this report.
The crash has understandably shaken those who live and travel through the Moselle area. Incidents like this serve as a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can change on the road, and how every trip—no matter how routine—carries risks.
At this time, the Mississippi Highway Patrol says the crash remains under investigation. Officials have not released details about possible contributing factors, and no conclusions have yet been shared regarding how the collision occurred. Investigators will continue reviewing evidence and information from the scene to determine the circumstances leading up to the crash.
As news of the incident spreads, many are taking a moment to reflect on the importance of road safety, patience, and attentiveness behind the wheel. Community members are also extending thoughts and prayers to the family of Douglas Pertuit, as well as to the injured individuals as they recover.
Local residents often describe U.S. Highway 11 as a busy roadway, and crashes along highways like this can deeply impact not only those directly involved but also families, friends, and first responders who witness the aftermath.
Authorities encourage drivers to remain cautious, obey traffic laws, and stay alert—especially during evening hours when visibility can change and fatigue may set in.
Further updates may be released as the investigation continues. For now, the focus remains on honoring a life lost and supporting those affected by this tragic event.
Our thoughts are with all families involved as the community comes together in reflection and care.
