Driver Killed in Drag Racing Crash in Copiah County

A 22-year-old man is deceased following a high-speed drag racing incident near County Line Road Sunday evening.

According to the Copiah County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to reports of street racing near the intersection of Highway 51 and County Line Road, but no vehicles were located at the time.

Shortly after, Mississippi Highway Patrol troopers observed two cars lining up to race in the same area. As a trooper attempted to stop them, one of the drivers fled.

The suspect, identified as Jayden Bridges of Copiah County, led officers down Rhymes Road at a high rate of speed. He lost control of his 2007 black Dodge Charger and struck a tree. Bridges was transported to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased.

"This is a tragic reminder of how dangerous illegal street racing can be," said Trooper Marcus Allen with the Mississippi Highway Patrol. "One moment of recklessness cost a young man his life."

The trooper involved in the pursuit sustained non-life-threatening injuries.

Local residents say the area has become a known spot for racing after dark.

“I’ve seen cars speeding down here late at night more times than I can count,” said Brenda Carter, who lives near Rhymes Road. “It was only a matter of time before something like this happened.”

Authorities say the incident remains under investigation.