News Release

Alleged Assault Victim Recants

Date: June 1, 2018
Contact: Acting Chief Ranger John Hearne, 662-680-4014

TUPELO, MS – On May 24, 2018, Kannaya Jackson of Lexington, Mississippi contacted the Natchez Trace Parkway (Parkway) Communications Center, to report that she had been assaulted by two people when she stopped to check an object in the roadway. As part of this alleged altercation, Jackson stated that she fired several rounds from a handgun in order to defend herself. Jackson was featured in a local media story, bringing significant public interest to the case.

The seriousness of this allegation resulted in an exhaustive investigation by Parkway Rangers and the Investigative Services Branch of the National Park Service. Based on this investigation and admissions made by Jackson, it has been determined that no assault or similar incident ever took place. At this time, charges are pending against Jackson for making a false report.

 “The safety of our visitors is the primary concern of the Natchez Trace Parkway,” says Acting Chief Ranger John Hearne. “We hope that resolution of this matter helps our visitors feel safer and allows them to continue to enjoy all the Parkway offers.”

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