Ridgeland man killed in early-morning Trace wreck

RIDGELAND — One person died and three others were injured in a single-vehicle accident that briefly closed the Natchez Trace here last Friday.

John Vanderford, 57, of Ridgeland, died in the accident, according to Ridgeland Police Chief Brian Myers.

On Friday, Oct. 20, at about 5:30 a.m., RPD responded to mile marker 101.5 on the Natchez Trace Parkway in reference to a report of a motor vehicle accident, Myers said. 

Upon arrival, officers observed a single vehicle resting slightly in the northbound lane of the Trace. The vehicle had struck a tree.

“The vehicle had sustained severe damage," Myers said. 

Officers soon discovered multiple occupants who were in need of medical assistance. Officers later discovered Vanderford, the driver of the vehicle, did not survive.

Myers said Pafford transported three occupants to the University Medical Center in Jackson. 

The wreck closed a portion of the Trace between I-55 and Rice Road.

“We do not have any additional information regarding the extent of their injuries at this time,” Myers said Tuesday afternoon.  

Natchez Trace Park Rangers responded to the location to further the investigation, Myers said.

Vanderford was the former owner of a concrete pumping business, and enjoyed being a cowboy, hunting, and fishing. Most of all, he “loved his kids and was a wonderful family man,” his obituary said.