Monroe County is mourning the loss of 51-year-old Garrick Word of Prairie, who tragically died Wednesday night following a single-vehicle accident on Highway 45 Alternate, just north of Highway 41 near Okolona, officials confirmed.
According to the Monroe County Coroner’s Office, Word was driving a Toyota when his vehicle left the roadway, causing him to be ejected from the car. He was rushed to North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
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The exact circumstances surrounding why Word’s vehicle left the road remain under investigation. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether weather, road conditions, or other factors contributed to the crash. The Mississippi Highway Patrol Troop G is leading the probe, examining the vehicle, roadway, and witness accounts to determine the cause.
Word’s sudden death has left the Prairie community in shock. Friends, family, and neighbors expressed deep sorrow, reflecting on the profound impact such a tragedy has in tight-knit rural communities.
Troop G officials noted that single-vehicle accidents often result from a combination of driver error, roadway conditions, and environmental factors. They emphasized the importance of seatbelt use, pointing out that being ejected from a vehicle greatly increases the risk of fatal injuries. Drivers are also urged to remain cautious on rural highways, particularly in areas with curves, limited lighting, and narrow lanes.
The investigation remains active, and authorities plan to release further details as they become available. Garrick Word’s passing is a stark reminder of the dangers present on rural roadways and the importance of safe driving practices.