One Charged Following Fatal Hit-and-Run on Highway 45 North

MERIDIAN, Miss. — A Lauderdale County man has been charged in connection with a fatal hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of a Meridian woman late Friday night on Highway 45 North.

According to sources, motorists began calling 911 shortly before 11 p.m. Friday to report that a female pedestrian had been struck by a vehicle on Highway 45 North. The incident occurred in the southbound lane near Joles Road, approximately one mile north of Minnow Bucket Road.

The Lauderdale County Sheriff's Office and Northeast Volunteer Fire Department were the first agencies to arrive on the scene, followed by the Mississippi Highway Patrol and Metro Ambulance Service. Upon arrival, emergency personnel determined that the victim had died from her injuries. The vehicle involved had left the scene before authorities arrived.

Lauderdale County Coroner Stella McMahan identified the victim as Laura White, 39, of Meridian.

Travis Portis was taken into custody Saturday morning at a residence on 49th Court without incident by The Mississippi Highway Patrol. He was charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving a fatality.

Authorities also seized and transported a vehicle believed to be connected to the investigation from the arrest location.

Portis was granted a $50,000 bond and was released Saturday afternoon after posting bond at approximately 2:15 p.m.

Preliminary reports indicate that White may have been attempting to retrieve an item from the roadway when she was struck. Investigators have not released an official statement regarding the circumstances surrounding the crash or why the driver allegedly failed to stop and render aid.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident and is expected to release additional information as the case develops.

Anyone with information related to the crash is encouraged to contact the Mississippi Highway Patrol.