Community gathers to support Sumrall Fire Department

SUMRALL, Miss. - The community gathered Thursday night during a candlelit vigil in Sumrall to support the injured and two fallen firefighters that were killed during a hit-and-run Wednesday evening.

The chaplain said, "And tonight to be able to come together, to give our support, and to promise our continuing support.”

The community said the unexpected death of the Alvin Beasley, 80, and Loretta Sykes, 53, is a tragedy.

“I couldn’t believe it there are still moments that Lori is not gone" said Sykes' friend Lisa Dobbs. The Sumrall Troop 45 boy scouts passed out candles to support Sumrall Fire Department (SFD).

“We’re just trying to help out with all the other part of the community, we got people all over South Mississippi to help" said Sumrall Scout Master Troop 45 Chuck Hinchey.

SFD Fire Coordinator George Stevens said, “They have helped thousands of people over the years being volunteer firefighters.”

More than a dozen fire departments from across the Pine Belt were present along with multiple law enforcement agencies to show support.

Authorities arrested Brandon Eaton, 31, and charged him with hit-and-run causing death. Eaton was arrested Wednesday shortly after the accident.

Eaton's bond was set at $100,000 in cash Thursday morning. According to officials Eaton's blood was taken and the toxicology report is still pending. Lamar County Sheriff Danny Rigel said Eaton appeared impaired.

The third firefighter, Shaun Huhn, was released from Forrest General Hospital with non-life threatening injuries Thursday.

The incident is still under investigation and is being overseen by the Mississippi Highway Patrol, Lamar County Sheriff's Department, and Sumrall Police Department.