78-Year-Old Truck Driver Found Dead Near Mississippi Rest Area

Authorities in Mississippi are investigating the death of a 78-year-old truck driver who was found beside his 18-wheeler near the northbound Wesson rest area on Interstate 55.

The driver was discovered Thursday in Copiah County. According to local reports, someone noticed him on the ground near the passenger side of the truck and contacted authorities.

Officials believe he may have been there for several hours before he was found.

The driver was reportedly working for JC Transport. His name had not been released while authorities worked to notify his family.

Copiah County Emergency Operations Center Director Darryl Hilliard said preliminary information indicated that the driver died from natural causes.