1 killed, 5 injured in Rankin County crash

RANKIN CO., Miss. (WLBT) – Authorities are investigating a fatal two-vehicle crash in Rankin County.

According to a news release, Mississippi Highway Patrol troops responded to US 49 North near Star Road on Saturday around 6:12 p.m.

One of the vehicles, a 2024 Hyundai Palisade, was driven by 78-year-old John Woodward of Brandon. There were three passengers in the vehicle: 72-year-old Ira Ott of Brandon, 73-year-old Betty Ott of Brandon and 71-year-old Donna Woodward of Brandon.

The other vehicle, a 2000 Grand Pontiac, was driven by 21-year-old Gracie Blakeney of Taylorsville. Ashley Holloman, 36, of Waynesboro, was a passenger in the vehicle.

Authorities tell WLBT 3 On Your Side that the Palisade was traveling north on US 49 and the Pontiac crossed US 49.

According to the press release, the Pontiac collided with the Hyundai at that time.

Woodward and his three passengers were taken to UMMC in Jackson with unknown injuries.

The driver of the Pontiac was also taken to UMMC with unknown injuries.

Tragically, Ashley Holloman died at the scene.

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