Starkville, MS (February 25, 2026) – A police officer suffered serious injuries Saturday afternoon, February 21, on Gared Road between Highway 25 and Jackson while assisting with a funeral procession in Starkville.
The collision occurred shortly before 1:45 p.m. when a motorcycle officer escorting the procession collided with a vehicle not part of the procession. Authorities identified the injured officer as Colby Huffman.
Huffman sustained critical injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Jackson for treatment. Family members later shared that he remains in critical but stable condition.
The driver of the other vehicle stayed at the scene and declined medical treatment. Emergency units responded to assist and secure the area following the crash.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the accident, and more details will be released as they become available.
Our thoughts are with the injured officer as he continues to receive medical care.
How Funeral Processions Affect Traffic Safety
Funeral processions often move slowly through intersections and along major roads while remaining grouped together. Police escorts or traffic control measures are commonly used to help the procession pass safely without interruption.
Drivers who encounter a procession may see motorcycles or patrol vehicles blocking lanes or directing traffic. Confusion can occur if motorists are unfamiliar with procession procedures or fail to notice escort signals in time.
Motorcycle officers face added risks because they are exposed and frequently positioned at intersections or moving between traffic lanes. Reduced speeds, increased awareness, and following traffic signals or officer directions can help lower the risk of crashes when a procession is underway.
