WESSON — Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks Law Enforcement Officers were involved in a vehicle pursuit Sunday night while investigating reports of illegal hunting activity along MS-28 in Copiah County. In the chase, the alleged spotlighting subjects crashed. 

Col. Jerry Carter, Chief of Law Enforcement, said the case began from public tips about suspected illegal hunting activity. Officers worked a detail Sunday night when they noticed illegal hunting activity and observed someone shining a light from a vehicle. 

Shortly after, the subjects noticed the law enforcement vehicle. Carter said the officers initiated a traffic stop only for the subjects to run from MS-28 onto Reese Road. 

According to MDWFP’s preliminary report, the subjects crashed twice before coming to a stop. Officers were able to secure the scene and subjects. No injuries were reported. 

Carter said charges are still pending. The subjects would likely be charged with headlighting and additional charges following the investigation. 

Lincoln County Sheriffs Office Deputies were on standby in the area of Lott Smith and Newell Road to assist MDWFP officers with the vehicle pursuit.

Spotlighting, also known as head lighting, deer is illegal in the state of Mississippi. The Class I violation carries hefty fines, weapons are usually confiscated, the subject loses hunting privileges and must have their license reinstated. 

“In closing, head lighting deer is illegal. Any use of an aid such as a light or amplifying device used to hunt deer at night is illegal,” Carter said. “We ask the general public to please report all violations. We depend on the information from the general public about illegal hunting activity. We appreciate the general public.”

People can report suspected illegal hunting activity on the MDWFP’s website or by calling 1-800-BE-SMART. 

Check back for more updates on this case and other news about the outdoors.