LEE COUNTY, MS – Over a period of three days, the Natchez Trace Parkway experienced two motorcycle collisions; one with serious injuries and the other with a death. On October 19, 2018, at approximately 11:00 A.M., Natchez Trace Parkway Communications received a phone call reporting a truck versus motorcycle collision at milepost 180 near French Camp. The preliminary investigation shows that motorcyclist Ernest Davis of Lake Wylie, SC, was southbound on the Parkway when a vehicle operated by Freddie Hunt of McCool, MS, attempted to cross the Parkway and pulled into the motorcycle’s path. Davis received serious injuries and was flown by helicopter to the UMC Trauma Center in Jackson, MS.
Two days later, on October 21, 2018, at approximately 2:10 P.M., a phone call was received by Natchez Trace Parkway Communications reporting a truck versus motorcycle collision near mile post 111 of the Parkway. The preliminary investigation indicates that the truck, operated by John McBride of Jackson, MS, turned left in front of the motorcycle operated by Steven Hawkins of Flowood, MS. Hawkins received fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene.
In both incidents, the at-fault drivers stated that they did not see the oncoming motorcycle. Chief Ranger Sarah Davis advises, “The Natchez Trace Parkway experiences a variety of traffic from cars and motorcyclists to bicycles and horses. Our visitors need to remain vigilant to ensure the safety of their fellow Parkway users.” Chief Davis also reminds everyone that with cooling temperatures they should expect to see an increase in motorcyclists and bicyclists as the recreational use of the Parkway increases.
