Ryan C. Peterson, Stone County Resident, Dies in Tragic Train Collision Alongside Four Others
On March 27th, 2026, Ryan C. Peterson, a 26-year-old Stone County resident, tragically lost their life in a devastating crash involving a freight train. The collision occurred at around 1 p.m. at a railroad crossing along Pump Branch Road, a quiet stretch of road in rural Mississippi.
Peterson, who was driving the van, was among five victims who died at the scene after the vehicle collided with a northbound Canadian Pacific Kansas City freight train. The van was carrying six individuals, and the impact of the crash forced the vehicle nearly 500 yards down the tracks.
Along with Peterson, the victims were identified as 45-year-old Kristina Carver, 22-year-old Emley Chamblee, 20-year-old Sarabeth Chamblee, and 23-year-old Demarcus Perkins. A sixth passenger, a 23-year-old woman, survived the crash but was airlifted to a hospital in New Orleans with serious injuries. The community has rallied around the families, offering heartfelt condolences during this unimaginable loss.
Stone County Sheriff Todd Stewart confirmed that the crash is under investigation as authorities work to understand the factors that contributed to the tragic accident. As of now, there has been no indication of any injuries to the train crew or passengers aboard the freight train.
Online tributes have poured in from the community, with many expressing their grief and offering support to the families. The pain of losing young lives in such a sudden and violent way has left a lasting impact on those who knew the victims.
Details about memorial services will be shared by the families in the coming days.
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