Jimmie Keathen died in two-vehicle crash on Mississippi Highway 16

Turning Volvo log truck struck Ford F-250 near Sharon Road, injuring Gloria Keathen

January 12, 2026 | Canton, MS

A 73-year-old man from Pearl lost his life, and his 66-year-old passenger sustained injuries in a collision between a Ford F-250 and a Volvo log truck on Mississippi Highway 16 in Canton on Jan. 12.

Jimmie Keathen, 73, of Pearl, was killed and Gloria Keathen, 66, of Pearl, was injured in a crash involving a Ford F-250 and a Volvo log truck on Highway 16 near Sharon Road in Canton.

What Happened in the Crash?

The Mississippi Highway Patrol reported that the incident occurred around 5:54 p.m. as the southbound Volvo log truck attempted to turn west near Sharon Road. It collided with the eastbound Ford F-250 driven by Jimmie Keathen, with Gloria Keathen as the passenger.

• Location: Mississippi Highway 16 near Sharon Road, Canton, MS
• Time: Approximately 5:54 p.m. on Jan. 12
• Vehicles Involved: Volvo log truck and Ford F-250
• Driver of Ford: Jimmie Keathen, 73, of Pearl
• Passenger: Gloria Keathen, 66, of Pearl
• Outcome for Jimmie: Fatal injuries
• Outcome for Gloria: Airlifted to University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson with unspecified injuries

Why Do Log Truck Accidents Happen?

Factors contributing to crashes with large trucks can include loss of control, vehicle failures, and driver fatigue. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), such incidents often involve complex elements that require thorough review.

This table highlights statistics from the FMCSA, underscoring the prevalence of these risks on roadways.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving large commercial vehicles, an independent investigation is crucial to safeguard victims' rights. National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and contributor to Newsline, emphasized the need for prompt action.

“Crashes with large trucks are often complex, and many factors can play a role in these types of accidents,” said Bond. “A skilled attorney can protect a grieving family from trucking companies, which often send their own investigators to crash sites and possess a variety of resources they can utilize to defend a negligent truck driver. Your lawyer can advocate for you by hiring witnesses, conducting driver background checks, locating witnesses to the crash and reviewing applicable insurance coverage, while carefully guiding you through the legal process.”

• Trucking firms may deploy investigators quickly to build defenses.
• Independent professionals can review driver histories and witness statements.
• Legal guidance ensures access to insurance and compensation options.

Pending investigation outcomes, the family of Jimmie Keathen could pursue a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation for loss of companionship, funeral expenses, pain, suffering, and emotional distress. Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal and Newsline contributor, noted the emotional toll.

“The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident,” said Formica. “We understand just what families are forced to go through, and having their rights protected is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.”

Gloria Keathen may also qualify for a personal injury claim covering medical bills, lost income, pain, and trauma.

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