Jackson, MS (September 8, 2026) – A 56-year-old pedestrian died after being struck by an unknown vehicle near North State Street and Briarwood Drive early on Sunday morning, September 6.
At about 1:56 a.m., officers were flagged down after someone reported a woman lying in the roadway. They found Pamela Ellis, 56, and determined that a vehicle had struck her before leaving the area.
Accident reconstruction personnel were called to examine the location, and the coroner took custody of Ellis’ body. Her family had been notified. Investigators continue working to identify the driver and determine what happened.
We extend our sincere condolences to Ellis’ family and loved ones.
Overnight Pedestrian Strikes Can Leave Investigators With Limited Evidence
Darkness can make it more difficult for witnesses to identify a vehicle’s color, make, model, or license plate. Traffic may also be lighter overnight, leaving fewer people nearby who can describe what happened.
Investigators may rely on roadway evidence, vehicle debris, surveillance video, and nearby cameras to reconstruct the sequence. The direction of travel and the point where the pedestrian was found can also help narrow the search for the involved vehicle.
Leaving after striking a pedestrian can make the investigation more difficult because the vehicle is no longer available for immediate examination. Damage patterns, broken parts, and video from nearby businesses or homes may later help connect a vehicle to the roadway contact.
