anola County has been rocked by a tragic accident involv

ing Katelyn Ray, a young driver who died after crashi

ng into a South Panola School bus. The incident occurred on

Wednesday morning around 7:15 a.m., con

firmed by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.
Katelyn Ray’s vehicle struck the rear of the school

bus on Highway 15 near Highway 6. Her family confirmed she

was on her way to pick up her elder sister from work. Katelyn’s mother, Shelia Ray, shared thei

r final conversation, describing it as a “straightforward display of familial love and devoti

on.”
When Katelyn failed to arrive at her sister’s workplace

by 7:30 a.m., the family grew increasingly concerned.

Her sister, Courtney Pettit, expressed her worry and questioned

Katelyn’s whereabouts. She took to social media, posting a heartfelt

message on Facebook, pleading for any information.
The highway police eventually called with the heartbreaking news.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol reported that Katelyn’s vehicle hit

the school bus with great force. Her aunt, Stephanie Pettit,

shared how difficult it was for the family to comprehend what had happened.

Katelyn, who had obtained her driver’s license just two

months before the accident, was remembered as a happy and

outgoing person. The community of Panola County continues to grieve her loss.