A late-night altercation in Marshall has resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to her young son after they were struck by a vehicle. The Marshall Police Department responded to reports of a disturbance involving multiple females in the 100 block of Martindale around 10 p.m. on November 3, 2024.
Upon arrival, officers found a chaotic scene with an ongoing fight among several women and approximately 40 individuals present. Tragically, 23-year-old Derkyla Fort was discovered underneath a vehicle, with her 5-year-old son injured nearby. Despite the prompt arrival of Marshall Fire Emergency Medical Services (EMS), Fort was pronounced dead at the scene. Her son was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries sustained during the incident.
Investigators determined that 22-year-old Samantha Johnson was driving the vehicle that struck Fort and her child. Johnson has since been arrested and charged with Murder, Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and Injury to a Child With Intent. She is currently being held at the Harrison County Jail.
The Marshall Police Department is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic event. Anyone with information is urged to contact the department's non-emergency line at 903-935-4575.
