Another Jones County fatality has been attributed to the Easter storms that battered much of south Mississippi two days ago. Local officials have reported that Patrick Hadley, 27 years old, of Alabama apparently died of a heart attack Monday as he was assisting in clean-up efforts near Soso. Hadley’s death brings the total number of Mississippi fatalities connected to Sunday’s storms to 12. 

The Jones County Coroners Office had earlier confirmed two deaths in Jones County: Jessica Spradley, age 43, and Sara Ward, age 81. 

Counties reporting storm related fatalities, according to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency, are Carroll County (one fatality), Jefferson Davis County (four), Jones County (three), Lawrence County (two), Panola County (one) and Walthall County (one).

Thirty Mississippi counties have notified MEMA of damage in their areas, and thousands of residents are still without electricity. Many who lost part or all of their property are being assisted by neighbors, out of state Good Samartians, volunteer fire fighters, churches and local government agencies in the recovery from the storms that demolished large swaths of Jones and Jasper counties.

According to Jones County EOC Executive Director Paul Sheffield, the tornado entered the southwest portion of Jones County and cut a 15- to 20-mile trek through the county. The severe weather then pushed into Jasper County, causing colossal damage, especially in the Moss and Heidelberg areas. The violent weather swept away homes and other structures, downed power lines, and left injuries and death in its wake. 

Sightseers have been a hindrance to crews attempting to clean up debris and restore power, and local officials are asking that those not involved in the recovery efforts please stay away.

Jones County Fire Council PIO Dana Bumgardner shared Monday that individuals needing assistance can call Lee Garrick at 601-498-2858. Garrick can arrange for general needs such as tarps and generators for loan, as well as crews with chain saws to help clear areas with debris. Jones County EOC advises Jones County residents to report damage by visiting https://www.crisistrack.com/public/jonesMS/request.html.

Jasper County residents can reach the EOC office in Bay Springs by calling 601-764-3800.