Police say 37-year-old Jonathan Cook of Natchez was taken into custody on a DUI charge following the tragic crash that claimed the life of Mike Pennington. According to investigators, Cook refused all roadside DUI testing at the scene. Officers transported him to Merit Health Natchez, where hospital staff collected a blood sample that has since been sent to the Mississippi State Crime Lab for analysis. Authorities say additional charges are expected as toxicology results return and the investigation continues.
Natchez Police Investigator Jerry Brown reported that Pennington was driving south near the Liberty Road bridge late Saturday night when Cook’s pickup truck struck the rear of his sedan. The impact caused Pennington’s vehicle to overturn. Despite efforts by first responders, he did not survive the injuries he sustained.
Officials emphasize that the case remains active as they continue reviewing evidence, conducting interviews, and awaiting lab findings. More information will be released as the investigation progresses.
Incidents like this are painful reminders of how quickly life can change. Mike Pennington was well known throughout Natchez. For years, his friendly presence at Walmart and Domino’s left a lasting impression on customers, coworkers, and friends. He was someone people relied on and someone the community genuinely cared about. His sudden passing has left a deep emotional impact across the city.
At the same time, investigators acknowledge that Jonathan Cook is also part of this community — a husband and a father whose family is now facing a different kind of heartbreak. While the decisions he made behind the wheel had devastating consequences, his loved ones are now grappling with fear, uncertainty, and the emotional weight of what lies ahead.
As Natchez mourns the loss of Mike Pennington, thoughts and prayers go out to both families, each facing unimaginable difficulty in their own way. May the community continue to offer support, compassion, and understanding as they navigate the days ahead.
