Deadly Storms Hit South Mississippi

JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – At least four people are dead after a possible tornado ripped through two southeast counties in the state.

Gov. Phil Bryant has also issued a state of emergency for Jones and Marion counties, along with other parts of the state.

Jones County Emergency Management director Marda Tullos says two were killed Tuesday in Laurel. She says the man and woman were inside a mobile home that was in the storm’s path.

Marion County coroner Norma Williamson tells WDAM that two people died from the tornado in Columbia. One was in Wilks Trailer Park and the other in a strip mall. She says the Marion County hospital emergency room is dealing with many patients.

Mississippi Highway Patrol Lt. Johnny Poulos says police have shut down the three highways that lead into Columbia because of downed trees and other debris.