Volunteer Firefighters Attacked Following Fatal Wreck in Copiah County

Special to Wesson News

A man has turned himself in to authorities following a fatal car crash in Copiah County that sparked unrest at the scene and left multiple volunteer firefighters injured. The individual has been identified as 48-year-old Kenmantel Davis of Copiah County. According to the Copiah County Sheriff’s Office, Davis voluntarily surrendered around 1:45 p.m. on August 6.

Davis is the father of 18-year-old Ken’Zavion Brown, who was killed in the early-morning crash. In connection with the events that unfolded following the incident, Davis has been charged with simple assault on a fireman, which is classified as a felony under Mississippi law. Sheriff Byron Swilley confirmed that one firefighter has filed charges related to the assault.

The crash occurred on Sunday, August 3, at approximately 12:40 a.m. near the intersection of Lilly Road and Allen Road, an area reportedly known for drag racing. Officers arriving at the scene encountered a large and agitated crowd estimated to be between 200 and 300 people. As tensions grew, several first responders—specifically, four volunteer firefighters—were reportedly attacked by members of the crowd.

Three of the injured firefighters were taken to Copiah County Medical Center for treatment, while the fourth declined medical assistance. Authorities believe that frustration over the response time may have contributed to the crowd’s reaction, although that remains under investigation. At this time, no names of the firefighters involved have been made public.

The Copiah County Sheriff’s Department is continuing to investigate the incident.