Mississippi DUI Driver Who Killed 2, Injured 1 Faces Trial in January, 2026
A tragic crash in Mississippi has drawn renewed attention to the devastating consequences of impaired driving and the legal options available to victims and their families. According to national news reports, a Mississippi woman indicted on multiple manslaughter and felony DUI charges is scheduled to face trial in January 2026 for a crash that killed two young college students and seriously injured a third. The case has had a profound impact on the local community and serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of driving while impaired.
The crash occurred on December 5, 2023, in Stone County and involved two vehicles. Prosecutors allege that Valerie Shanta Smith, 47, of Beaumont, was under the influence of the anti-anxiety medication Xanax at the time of the collision. The crash resulted in the deaths of Kyla “Muffin” O’Neal Watkins, 18, and Se’Dhari Saniya Watson-Person, 19, both graduates of Gautier High School and students at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College’s Perkinston campus. A third student, Tatyanna Denise Richmond, suffered serious injuries. In May, a Stone County grand jury indicted Smith on two counts of manslaughter and three counts of felony DUI causing death or disfigurement. Her trial is tentatively set for January 5, 2026, though delays remain possible. Following the crash, the city of Gautier held a prayer vigil to honor the victims and support the injured student.
Wrongful Death Claims in Mississippi
When a drunk driving accident results in the loss of life in Mississippi, certain close surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under Mississippi wrongful death personal injury laws. These civil claims are separate from any criminal charges and focus on holding the at-fault party financially accountable for the harm caused. A wrongful death claim under Mississippi laws may seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses, medical costs incurred before death, loss of financial support, and the emotional pain suffered by surviving loved ones.
Mississippi wrongful death laws limits who may bring a wrongful death claim and sets specific deadlines for filing. These cases can be legally complex, particularly when serious criminal charges are also involved or pending. Families often face overwhelming grief while trying to navigate the legal process, making experienced legal guidance especially important. This is where an experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyer can come in to help you.
Getting Legal Help After a Fatal Drunk Driving Accident Takes a Loved One’s Life in Mississippi
There is no question that DUI accidents often leave families searching for answers and accountability. An experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyer can help victims and families understand their legal options and pursue justice through the civil court system. The experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers at the law firm Lunsford, Baskin & Priebe, PLLC represent Mississippi families affected by drunk driving accidents, including wrongful death and serious personal injury cases. Legal representation by experienced counsel can help ease the burden during a difficult time and ensure that victims’ rights are fully protected.
If you or a loved one were injured in a drunk driving car accident in Mississippi and you need legal help getting justice due to you, contact the experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers at Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC. Contact Lunsford Baskin & Priebe, PLLC today and speak with a lawyer now.
Source:
yahoo.com/news/articles/parents-college-student-killed-shooting-235307739.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAIYPtMeeBHIywoW49tct1KIrUigS1BOqU1Gd48eG8cArHaR13U_Y10djRiP8UmJM7_RWsZoeONnoSYuCFFXm_vDcLQuZKyxjEQttP-aP-s3gkwKMGJogLu5JN_EPilcWtzfAlCMyQzo28aR7IoxXRUD7m04Z1-Yj48uLGcECDXze
