One person dies in holiday weekend accidents

The Mississippi Highway Patrol (MHP) reported one fatality during the holiday period between Saturday, Dec. 30, 2023 at 6 a.m. and Monday, Jan. 1 at 12 midnight.

According to MHP, the fatal crash occurred early on New Year’s morning about 12:30 a.m. It took place on Highway 607 in Hancock County involving a pedestrian.

A 2018 Chevrolet Tahoe driven by 38-year-old Teuta Karaliu of Slidell, Louisiana was traveling south on Highway 607 when it collided with a pedestrian walking in the middle of the highway.

The Hancock County Coroner’s Office is working to identify the victim and the crash remains under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.

Statewide, MHP issued 4,865 citations, made 77 arrests for impaired driving, and investigated 119 crashes, resulting in 21 injuries, with one fatality in Hancock County.

NEW YEAR TRAVEL PERIOD ENFORCEMENT OVERVIEW

2023-2024 New Year Holiday Travel Totals

December 30 – January 1 (3 Days)

Total Citations – 4865
Seat belt and Child Restraint – 456
DUI’s – 77
Crashes – 119
Fatal Crashes – 1
Fatalities – 1
Motorist Assist – 58

2022-2023 New Year Holiday Travel Totals

December 30- January 2 (4 Days)

Total Citations – 8037
Seat belt and Child Restraint – 858
DUI’s – 164
Crashes – 203
Fatal Crashes – 2
Fatalities – 2
Motorist Assist – 87