NATCHEZ — Authorities have identified the driver involved in a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred late Sunday night along U.S. Highway 61 near the Walmart entrance in Natchez.
According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the incident happened at approximately 11 p.m. when a 2019 Dodge Charger traveling southbound struck a pedestrian who was also moving south along the highway.
The pedestrian has been identified as 29-year-old Devon Harper of Natchez. Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the collision, but Harper sustained severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators confirmed that the vehicle was driven by 24-year-old Elijah Marsaw of Vidalia, Louisiana. Marsaw is an officer with the Natchez Police Department and was off duty at the time of the accident.
Natchez Police Commander Jerry Ford stated that Marsaw has been sent home pending further review. He added that the police chief is expected to place the officer on administrative leave with pay while the Mississippi Highway Patrol completes its investigation.
Officials have not yet released additional details regarding the circumstances leading up to the crash, including whether speed, visibility conditions, or other factors may have contributed. Toxicology tests and accident reconstruction efforts are typically standard procedure in investigations of this nature.
The stretch of U.S. Highway 61 near major retail areas, including Walmart, often sees increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic, especially during evening hours. Authorities are urging residents to exercise caution when traveling on or near highways after dark.
The Mississippi Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident, and further information is expected to be released as the case develops.
