A Jackson County sheriff’s deputy died early Friday after his car collided with horses on Highway 15 as he drove home from a shift, authorities said.
The accident happened at about 5:25 a.m. in Stone County, just north of the Harrison County line.
Jackson County Sheriff John Ledbetter said the collision killed Deputy Joshua Brashears, a dedicated member of the department’s patrol division.
“We definitely have heavy hearts this morning, dealing with a tragic death of one of our own,” Ledbetter said. “During this tragic situation, our condolences, thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Deputy Brashears, the entire Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, other law enforcement agencies and the community.”
Brashears, 45, had worked at the sheriff’s office for about two years and was deeply respected by colleagues and residents for his professionalism and compassion, Ledbetter said. He was driving home near McHenry when the accident happened, said Chris Goff, a spokesperson for the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.
Three horses were on the dark road before dawn and appeared to cause the accident, according to the Highway Patrol. Authorities said emergency responders brought Brashears to Memorial Hospital in Biloxi, where he died Friday morning.
The accident was a shock to leaders and law enforcement agencies across the region, and many offered condolences on Friday.
“My heart is heavy to learn about the passing of a brave servant,” U.S. Rep. Mike Ezell, a former Jackson County sheriff who represents South Mississippi in Congress, wrote on social media. “His loss is a fresh reminder that danger knows no shift, and that the call to protect and serve follows our officers even off duty.”
This is a developing story and may be updated.
