At approximately 2:59 a.m. on the morning of Sunday, March 30, Carroll County Deputies were dispatched to a home at 406 Second Street in North Carrollton. Upon arrival on the scene, deputies discovered that a tree had fallen onto the residence, resulting in the death of the homeowner. In addition to deputies, the North Carrollton Volunteer Fire Department and Entergy responded to the incident.
The deceased was identified to be Mary Lisa Hearn. Hearn, age 60, was reportedly a well-loved and greatly appreciated cafeteria worker at Marshall Elementary School in North Carrollton. Mary Lisa Hearn was also the beloved sister of North Carrollton Alderman Tom Hearn.
Sheriff Clint Walker made a statement regarding the accident in a press release, “I pray for Ms. Hearn’s family and friends and the students and faculty whose lives she touched daily. Two separate accidental deaths have shaken us, but we know that the Lord is near to those whose hearts are broken and whose spirits are crushed. I pray that He holds each family in His mighty hands and gives the comfort that only He can.”
North Carrollton Mayor and Emergency Management Director Ken Strachan went to the scene on Second Street early Sunday morning to assess the damages. According to Strachan, he had been in contact with the Red Cross and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency for recovery efforts through Sunday evening. He stated that he had contacted the National Weather Service in Jackson to determine if there were any severe weather watches or warnings out for the area at the time of the accident, however there were not. According to Strachan the fall of the tree is believed to be caused by the ground being oversaturated over the past two weeks due to ongoing showers and storms.
“I reported this to the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and documented the damage in Crisis Track which is the state reporting system,” Strachan stated, regarding the assessment.
Carroll County School District Superintendent Joey Carpenter expressed his condolences to the Hearn family for their loss.
“It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that I address the loss of one of our beloved staff members, Lisa Hearn, a cafeteria worker at Marshall Elementary School, who tragically passed away over the weekend. Ms. Hearn was a cherished member of our school family, and her passing has left a void in the hearts of all who knew her,” Superintendent Carpenter stated.
He went on to say, “Her dedication, kindness, and commitment to the children and staff of our school will not be forgotten. She was more than just a cafeteria worker; she was a friend and source of warmth and positivity. Her presence brightened our school, and her memory will forever be a part of the fabric of Marshall Elementary.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Lisa's family during this incredibly difficult time. We ask that the community keep them in their prayers and lift them up as they navigate this unimaginable loss. We are committed to supporting our students, staff, and families as we grieve together and heal as a school community,” Carpenter expressed.
“In the days ahead, we will come together to honor Lisa's life. She will be deeply missed,” he finished.
