A man and woman were killed Monday afternoon in a one-vehicle accident on a rain-slick stretch of Highway 35 south of Charleston.
Tallahatchie County Coroner Ginger Meriwether identified the victims as Henry Lee Cashaw, 53, of 20 Kimble Dr., Charleston, and Rubystein A. Patterson, 69, whose ID listed a Memphis address but whose family said resided at Cashaw’s address, noted Meriwether.
She said both were pronounced dead at the scene from “multiple trauma.”
Mississippi Highway Patrol spokesman Joseph Miller said the accident occurred at about 3:15 p.m. Monday when the southbound 2001 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by Cashaw, hydroplaned on the highway.
The truck left the pavement, careening into the parking lot of the adjacent Adams Arbor Church of God of Prophecy, where it smashed into a brick church sign.
“As a result of the accident, Mr. Cashaw and Ms. Patterson were killed,” Miller said, noting that neither was wearing a seat belt.
The trooper said a third occupant of the truck, a 36-year-old woman, was transported from the scene for medical care. The extent of her injuries was not known.
Meriwether said Robinson Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements for the two accident victims.
Meriwether noted that while the accident was tragic, the outpouring of concern in its wake was inspiring, as often is the case.
“The community came together and rallied around the families,” Meriwether noted. “Tallahatchie County is an awesome place in the wake of tragedy. All the first responders, fire, EMS and church workers were most helpful and extremely kind. I always love to see how we become family when such tragedies strike.”
IN THE PHOTO: A pickup rests atop a church sign outside Adams Arbor Church of God of Prophecy. The driver and a passenger were killed Monday when the vehicle hydroplaned and struck the sign. (Photo by Clay McFerrin)
