Mississippi Memorial Day Car Accidents Leave Two Dead: Know Your Legal Rights

Every Memorial Day weekend, families across Mississippi gather in remembrance. However, 2025 brought devastating news for two families as deadly Mississippi Memorial Day car accidents shattered the holiday peace.

Hancock County Crash Highlights Holiday Road Dangers

The first crash took place at approximately 3:40 a.m. on May 24, 2025. Howard Dawsey, age 52, was driving a Toyota Tacoma when it left the roadway on Highway 604 in Hancock County and struck a tree. He was transported to the hospital but tragically did not survive.

This incident was among the earliest fatal Memorial Day weekend traffic accidents in Mississippi.

Second Memorial Day Car Crash Claims Another Life in George County

That evening, a second fatal accident occurred around 8:30 p.m. on Highway 613 in George County. Tyler Merwin, 57, was driving a Chevrolet Express van when he collided with a northbound Ford F-150. Mr. Merwin died at the scene. Additionally, an adult and juvenile passenger were hospitalized with injuries.

These tragedies underscore the dangers of holiday weekend collisions in Mississippi.

MHP Reports Two Deaths in Mississippi Memorial Day Car Accidents

The Mississippi Highway Patrol worked through the holiday weekend, yet the results show how widespread traffic issues were. Over the Memorial Day enforcement period (May 24–27), MHP reported:

• 132 total car crashes
• 2 confirmed deaths
• 49 injuries
• 164 DUI arrests
• 1,597 total citations
• 45 seatbelt violations

The spike in crashes and enforcement actions confirms that Mississippi Memorial Day car accidents remain a serious public safety concern.
(Source: WLOX)

Causes Behind Mississippi Memorial Day Car Accidents

While investigations are still underway, common causes of Memorial Day weekend crashes in Mississippi include:

• Impaired driving (alcohol or drug use)
• Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
• Speeding or reckless behavior
• Fatigue during long road trips
• Failure to wear seatbelts

Understanding the root causes of these Mississippi Memorial Day car accidents can help prevent future tragedies.

What to Do After a Mississippi Memorial Day Car Crash

If you or someone you love was injured in a Memorial Day crash, it’s critical to take immediate action. You may be eligible for compensation related to:

• Emergency medical care and surgery
• Long-term rehabilitation costs
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Lost income and future earning potential
• Pain and emotional trauma

A skilled personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and navigate next steps.

How Our Madison Injury Lawyers Help Victims of Holiday Accidents

At the Diaz Law Firm, our experienced legal team represents victims of Memorial Day car accidents in Mississippi and their families. We investigate every case, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for justice—so you don’t have to go through this process alone.

Trusted Car Accident Lawyers – Diaz Law Firm

A car accident can be life-changing, but the Diaz Law Firm is here to help Mississippi victims with expertise and compassion. Our skilled attorneys will listen, explain your rights, and fight for you with no legal fees unless we win. Don’t wait—contact our Madison office at (800) 459-2222 or (601) 607-3456, or use our online contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation today.