Shortly after, the family received a devastating call from the highway patrol confirming the fatal accident. Authorities said the impact caused Katelyn’s car to collide forcefully with the rear of the school bus. No students were reported injured. Family members described Katelyn as outgoing, loving, and dedicated to improving her future.

She was attending GED classes at the WIN Job Center and had proudly earned her driver’s license just two months earlier. As the investigation continues, Panola County mourns the loss of a young life — a painful reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike on the road.