In Loving Memory of Ronald Lechner and Brittany Hodges A Tragic Night on Highway 67 That Forever Changed Two Families
On a quiet Friday night, just north of the Highway 15 interchange, tragedy unfolded in an instant—an event that left two families shattered and a community grieving deeply. All southbound lanes of Highway 67 have since been reopened after the fatal crash, but the impact of what occurred will remain for years to come. The accident, which involved a violent rollover, claimed the lives of 61-year-old Ronald Lechner of D’Iberville and 36-year-old Brittany Hodges of Ocean Springs, two individuals whose lives ended far too soon.
According to Harrison County Coroner Brian Switzer, Ronald Lechner died at the scene. Brittany Hodges, though rushed to the hospital, tragically succumbed to her injuries not long after. The circumstances of the crash were devastating—Lechner was driving north in the southbound lane of Highway 67 when he collided with the vehicle driven by Hodges. The force of the impact caused Lechner’s truck to roll over, marking the final moments of a night that would leave families, friends, and first responders struggling to make sense of such a heartbreaking event.
As investigators continue to examine the crash, those left behind are faced with the immeasurable weight of loss. It is difficult to comprehend how a single moment on the roadway can alter so many lives—but for the families of Ronald and Brittany, that moment will forever divide the world into “before” and “after.”
Remembering Ronald Lechner
Ronald, 61, was a man known for his warmth, reliability, and down-to-earth nature. A resident of D’Iberville, he had lived a life filled with hard work, resilience, and devotion to those he loved. Family and friends describe him as someone who could always be counted on—a man with a steady presence, a kind laugh, and a heart for helping others.
Though the investigation revealed his seatbelt was unbuckled at the time of the crash, what matters most now is honoring who he was: a father, friend, neighbor, or perhaps a colleague, whose life touched many around him. His absence leaves a void that cannot be filled, but his memory will continue to live through the stories and love shared by all who knew him.
Remembering Brittany Hodges
At just 36 years old, Brittany Hodges of Ocean Springs had so much life ahead of her—dreams she was still reaching for, plans she was still making, and loved ones she was still building a future with. She is remembered as compassionate, vibrant, and deeply loved by those fortunate enough to be part of her life.
Wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash, Brittany fought bravely, but the injuries were too severe. Her passing is an unimaginable loss for her family and community. Friends describe her as someone who brought kindness wherever she went, someone who loved fiercely and lived with sincerity and strength. She leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and the beautiful memories she gifted to others in her 36 years.
A Community in Mourning
Tragic incidents like this one remind us of how fragile life truly is. The roadways we travel daily can, in an instant, become places of heartbreak. As officials continue to investigate the events that led to the collision, we hold in our thoughts the first responders who arrived at the scene, the families now navigating grief, and a community shaken by the sudden loss of two valuable lives.
Though Ronald and Brittany came from different towns and walked different life paths, their stories are now forever intertwined through this tragic moment. What remains now is love—love shared, love remembered, and love that continues to honor their lives.
Honoring Their Memory
As we reflect on this devastating crash, may we carry with us the lessons it leaves behind: to cherish our loved ones fully, to value each moment, and to recognize the fragility of life.
May the families of Ronald Lechner and Brittany Hodges find strength in one another, comfort in the memories they hold close, and peace in knowing their loved ones will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, Ronald and Brittany.
Your lives mattered, your stories mattered, and your memory will continue to shine in the hearts of those who loved you.
