A motorist’s death during a fiery crash on Suncrest Drive in Jackson has prompted an investigation into the conduct of two Jackson police officers.
The Jackson Police Department and Mississippi Bureau of Investigation are both investigating the officers’ connection to the Nov. 16 crash, which left 35-year-old Tina Carter Sawyer dead, JPD Chief Joseph Wade said during Mayor Chokwe A. Lumumba’s press conference at City Hall on Monday. He did not say whether or not a police chase preceded the crash.
“The vehicle crashed, immediately was engulfed in flames and was literally divided—the impact was so hot,” Wade told reporters.
He said that he decided to launch an investigation into the crash not only because of the fatality but also after viewing evidence that showed “a JPD vehicle passing that location shortly after the accident.”
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He said he was concerned over what appeared to be “questionable actions” and “inaction” after the crash and that he immediately reached out to MBI for assistance.
The Mississippi Department of Public Safety sent a statement to the Mississippi Free Press on Monday confirming that they are also investigating.
“After meeting with Jackson Police Department officials, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation is investigating a vehicle accident that occurred on Saturday, November 16th at the intersection of Suncrest Drive and Cooper Road. Due to this being an open and ongoing investigation, no further comment will be made at this time,” MDPS Media and Public Relations Specialist Bailey Martin said.
“We are trying to build something special here at the Jackson Police Department. If it was a pursuit, then it was a pursuit but your questionable actions and your inactions will not be tolerated by me,” the police chief said Monday.
“We expect our officers to have the utmost integrity and when they don’t, they don’t fit my mission and my vision for the police department,” Wade continued.
He added that he intends to “build trust” with the community and promised “a fair and impartial investigation that will be handed
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