A tragic crash in Pike County, Mississippi, claimed the life of a 33-year-old woman on Monday morning. According to the Mississippi Highway Patrol, the collision occurred when a Nissan Altima, driven by Samantha Barnum of Tylertown, collided with a garbage truck on Highway 98.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the crash. While no one in the garbage truck suffered life-threatening injuries, Barnum was tragically pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released further details about what may have caused the collision, and the investigation remains ongoing.

Crashes involving large commercial or municipal vehicles often require a thorough review to determine fault and whether all safety procedures were followed. Families affected by such tragedies deserve answers, accountability, and support as they navigate the aftermath.

If your loved one has been killed in a collision involving a commercial vehicle, contact the wrongful death attorneys at Singleton Schreiber to discuss your legal options and learn how we can help you pursue justice.

Potential Legal Options for Victims’ Families

When a fatal accident occurs, the victim’s family may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims allow surviving family members to seek compensation for the emotional and financial impact of losing a loved one.

In this case, determining who can be held liable will depend on the outcome of the investigation. Potentially liable parties may include:

• The garbage truck company or driver – if the driver was distracted, fatigued, or failed to follow traffic laws, they or the company that employs them could be held responsible. Employers may also share liability if the truck was not properly maintained or if the driver was inadequately trained.
• A local government agency or contractor – If the accident was influenced by poor roadway conditions, faded lane markings, or inadequate signage, the agency or contractor responsible for maintaining Highway 98 could bear some responsibility. Claims involving public entities often require prompt action and specific legal procedures.
• Other motorists – In some cases, another driver’s reckless actions, such as an unsafe lane change or sudden stop, can trigger a chain reaction that leads to a fatal crash. Thorough investigation and witness accounts are key to uncovering such factors.

Compensation in a wrongful death claim may include funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, medical bills related to the accident, emotional pain and suffering, and loss of companionship.

“Tragic collisions like this one often have multiple contributing causes, and families deserve to know what really happened,” says Letitia Johnson, attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “Whether the accident was caused by a negligent driver, unsafe roadway, or a failure in oversight, our team is committed to uncovering the truth and helping families pursue justice with compassion and care.”

Contact a Singleton Schreiber Wrongful Death Lawyer Today

If your family has lost a loved one in a collision with a commercial or municipal vehicle, you don’t have to go through this alone. Speaking with an experienced wrongful death attorney can help you understand your rights and determine the best path forward.

At Singleton Schreiber, we provide free, confidential consultations and will walk you through your legal options with care and clarity. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling fatal vehicle and commercial truck cases throughout Mississippi and across the country. Contact us today to learn more about your options and how we can help you seek justice.

A tragic series of collisions on Interstate 8 near Grantville claimed the lives of 25-year-old La Mesa Police Officer Lauren Craven and 19-year-old De’Veonte Morris on Monday night. The accident occurred as Officer Craven was assisting victims from an earlier crash, according to the California Highway Patrol. 

Authorities said the initial collision involved two vehicles, one of which overturned in the eastbound lanes of I-8. Morris, who was inside the overturned vehicle, was fatally injured. Officer Craven, who was on duty at the time, stopped her patrol car, radioed for backup, and began rendering aid to those involved. 

While she was assisting the victims, another vehicle struck the crash scene, hitting Officer Craven and several of the cars involved. A fifth vehicle then collided with the wreckage, adding to the devastation. Several people were transported to nearby hospitals with injuries. 

Remembering Officer Lauren Craven 

The La Mesa Police Department (LMPD) described Officer Craven as a “courageous, young officer” whose actions in her final moments reflected her unwavering commitment to service. Craven joined the department in February 2024 and quickly earned a reputation for her compassion, courage, and professionalism. 

Her father, David Craven, said his daughter’s journey to law enforcement was one of determination and purpose. After experiencing personal trauma in her early twenties, she decided to dedicate her life to protecting others. Her father remembers her telling him that she wanted “to be there for anybody in trouble that needs me.”

Chief of Police Ray Sweeney shared a message Craven had written during her hiring process: 

“It has always been my passion to serve others, and there has never been a doubt in my mind being a law enforcement officer is what I was meant to do.”

Governor Gavin Newsom also honored her sacrifice, ordering flags at the State Capitol to be flown at half-staff. “Officer Craven served her community with pride and dedication,” Newsom said. “Jennifer and I are heartbroken by her loss and the significant impact her passing leaves on the larger San Diego community.” 

Officer Craven’s death marks the first line-of-duty loss in the La Mesa Police Department’s 105-year history. She is survived by her parents, David and Karen, her sister Margot, and her partner Miles. 

The Investigation Continues

CHP Captain Reggie Williams said the fatal incident involved five vehicles in total. The initial crash caused a rollover that led to secondary impacts when passing drivers struck the wreckage. Officer Craven was hit while assisting those at the scene, and the sequence of collisions remains under investigation. 

Authorities have not yet determined whether speed, distraction, or other factors contributed to the crashes. 

Honoring Service, Seeking Safety, and the Road Ahead

For the La Mesa community, the loss of Officer Craven is profound, a reminder of the daily risks first responders take to keep others safe. Her courage and compassion, even in her final moment, reflect the best of what it means to serve. 

“First responders put their lives on the line every day to help others, and when tragedies like this occur, it deeply affects the entire community,” says Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber. “Our hearts go out to Officer Craven’s family, her fellow officers, and the loved ones of all who were impacted by this devastating event. Our firm remains committed to helping families find answers, accountability, and justice after preventable roadway tragedies.” 

Singleton Schreiber has represented many families across California who have lost loved ones or suffered catastrophic injuries in traffic incidents. If you or a loved one has been affected by a fatal crash or serious injury, contact Singleton Schreiber today for a free consultation. Nothing can undo the loss of life, but the firm’s compassionate attorneys can help you seek justice.

A tragic two-vehicle collision shut down Highway 15 north of Lamey Bridge Road on Monday afternoon, October 13, 2025, after a D’Iberville Public Works truck was involved in a serious crash. Authorities confirmed that an SUV rolled onto its side during the impact. One person, identified as 48-year-old William Bradford Parr of Perkinston, tragically lost his life, while another individual was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Another victim has been identified as Davey Quave, an electrician for the Public Works Department.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol is currently investigating the cause of the wreck, which left debris scattered across the roadway and traffic at a standstill for several hours.

If you or someone you love has been affected by a serious crash, contact Singleton Schreiber today. Our experienced attorneys can help you understand your rights and explore your legal options after a fatal or injury-causing accident.

The Dangers of Rollovers and Collisions Involving Large Trucks

Accidents involving large trucks often have devastating outcomes due to the size, weight, and limited maneuverability of these vehicles. When a smaller car or SUV rolls over in such a crash, the occupants face a significantly higher risk of serious or fatal injuries, including head trauma and internal damage. Even at moderate speeds, the momentum of a large truck can cause a catastrophic impact that smaller passenger vehicles simply can’t withstand.

“Accidents involving municipal or commercial trucks require careful investigation,” Zakia Chamberlain, attorney of Singleton Schreiber. “The size and weight of these vehicles mean that even minor errors can have devastating consequences. Understanding what happened is the first step toward justice.”

When a public works vehicle is involved, the investigation can become even more complex. City or county agencies may be responsible for ensuring that their drivers are properly trained, their vehicles are safely maintained, and their employees are operating within the scope of their duties. If a government employee acted negligently, such as by speeding, being distracted, or failing to follow safety protocols, the municipality itself could be held liable for the resulting damages.

Legal Options for the Victim’s Families and the Injured Survivor

Families who lose a loved one in a collision may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. This type of claim can help recover compensation for funeral expenses, lost income, and the emotional pain caused by the loss of a family member.

The individual who survived the crash may also be eligible to pursue a personal injury claim to seek compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering. These claims can provide essential financial support while helping hold negligent parties accountable.

Because a D’Iberville Public Works truck was involved, any potential claims could include government liability. While cases against public entities follow special procedures and strict filing deadlines, victims and their families still have the right to pursue compensation when government negligence plays a role in a fatal or serious crash.

If you’ve lost a loved one or suffered serious injuries in a crash involving a large truck or rollover, contact Singleton Schreiber today for a free consultation. Our legal team has the experience and dedication needed to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.