Ursula Hunley dies, Damaris Hunley hurt in head-on crash on Highway 18

Chevrolet Silverado collided with Honda Pilot carrying two sisters on roadway in Raymond

April 24, 2026 | Raymond, MS

 Ursula Hunley, 51, of Utica, lost her life in a tragic head-on collision on Highway 18, while her twin sister Damaris Hunley, also 51, sustained injuries requiring hospital treatment.

Ursula Hunley, 51, died and Damaris Hunley, 51, was injured after a head-on crash with a Chevrolet Silverado on Highway 18 in Raymond, Hinds County.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded early Friday morning when Ursula was driving a 2007 Honda Pilot eastbound on Highway 18 with Damaris as the passenger. A westbound 2025 Chevrolet Silverado struck their vehicle head-on just before 4:30 a.m.

• Location: Highway 18, Raymond, Hinds County, Mississippi
• Date and Time: April 24, around 4:30 a.m.
• Vehicles Involved: 2007 Honda Pilot, driven by Ursula, and 2025 Chevrolet Silverado, driven by a 29-year-old man from Petal
• Victims:

  • Ursula Hunley: Fatal injuries at the scene
  • Damaris Hunley: Transported to the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) in Jackson for treatment
  • Chevrolet Driver: Taken to the hospital, later died from injuries

• Emergency Response: Raymond Fire Department, multiple ambulances, Aircare, and Hinds County Coroner assisted the Mississippi Highway Patrol

The crash remains under investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to this devastating crash.

Why Do Head-On Crashes Occur?

Head-on collisions represent a small fraction of accidents but cause disproportionate fatalities. According to the Federal Highway Administration, these crashes make up about 2% of all incidents in the United States yet account for more than 10% of crash-related deaths.

Common contributing factors, as noted by traffic safety professionals, include:

This table highlights preventable elements that authorities often examine in such investigations.

Legal Insights

Newsline features analysis from seasoned professionals to provide clarity on complex incidents like motor vehicle crashes.

"In cases such as this, beyond law enforcement's efforts, it's crucial to re-interview witnesses, review surveillance footage, and secure phone records from the at-fault party," said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. "Prompt action ensures evidence is preserved effectively."

Key takeaways from the analysis:

• An accident reconstruction team may be essential for reconstructing circumstances and supporting claims.
• Families should act quickly to gather evidence for potential compensation related to damages or losses.
• Legal guidance helps navigate the process, ensuring all resources are utilized.

"Losing a loved one involves profound emotional and financial impacts," said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. "If negligence caused the loss, consulting a wrongful death attorney can help secure the justice deserved, offering compassionate support through legal challenges."

Pending investigation results, the families of Ursula and Damaris Hunley could pursue a wrongful death claim. Such claims may cover loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

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