Published: July 14, 2008 10:51 pm      

Morning accident claims life; injures two

A Monday morning accident that claimed one life and left two others injured is under investigation by the Mississippi Highway Patrol.

According to Sgt. Michael Cain, the accident occurred around 8:14 a.m. on Highway 19, 3 miles north of Collinsville.

"A 2006 Ford pickup being driven by Frank J. Ellis, 57, of Fontana, Calif., with a passenger, Judy C. Ellis, 56, was traveling south on Highway 19 when it was struck head on by a 2006 Toyota being driven by Roderick T. Griffin, 26, of Philadelphia," Cain said.

Mr. and Mrs. Ellis were transported to Riley Hospital, where Mrs. Ellis was pronounced dead. Mr. Ellis sustained injuries and was admitted to Riley. Griffin, who also sustained injuries, was transported to Rush Foundation Hospital, Cain said.

All vehicle occupants were wearing seatbelts.

The cause of the accident is unknown and under investigation. Cain said road and weather conditions were favorable.

"There were no problems with the road, and the weather was dry and clear," he said.