Basic Facts

Crash date: August 28, 2026

Crash location: Interstate 22 east of Cayce Road near Red Banks, MS

People involved:

  • Brandon Branstetter, 26
  • Ella Stewart, 23
  • Unidentified Chevrolet passengers
  • Unidentified truck driver, 45

Do authorities suspect alcohol played a role in this crash? Unknown

Did authorities recommend criminal charges? Unknown

Do authorities suspect a product defect caused the crash? Unknown

Accident Report

Marshall County, MS — August 28, 2026, Brandon Branstetter and two children were killed and Ella Stewart was injured in a truck accident at about 5:50 p.m. on Interstate 22.

Authorities said a westbound 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt reportedly was moving slowly because it was driving on a partially inflated spare tire, and a 2018 International semi-truck truck swerved and overturned as it apparently tried to avoid the other vehicle, causing a fiery collision near mile marker 20.

Two children, ages 1 and 5, who were in the Chevrolet died in the crash west of Red Banks, according to authorities, while driver Brandon Branstetter died after being transported to an area hospital. Passenger Ella Stewart of Williston, TN was hospitalized with unspecified injuries.

The truck driver was not hurt, authorities said.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the Marshall County crash at this time.

How Did This Accident Occur?

At this point, we don’t know why this truck overturned and crashed into the slower-moving car. Was the driver distracted or fatigued, making him slow to notice the other vehicle? Was the truck’s cargo loaded improperly, causing it to shift unexpectedly when the truck swerved? Did the truck have an issue with fifth-wheel coupler?

I don’t know the answer to these questions, but they are the kind of things that authorities should consider as they investigate this crash. That means poring over vehicle data, physical evidence, witness statements and available video footage to piece together what happened on I-22.

Investigators also should look at the trucking company to see if the driver was properly vetted and trained or if the truck was overdue for any scheduled maintenance or repairs.

This investigation should answer any lingering questions the grieving family has about this crash, or they may choose to have an outside expert take another look at the evidence.

Did you witness this accident? Tell me what you saw in the comment section.

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