Midfield mayor speaks out after tragic death of 21-year-old woman

MIDFIELD, Ala. (WBRC) - The mayor of Midfield spoke with WBRC following the tragic death of 21-year-old Michaya Jumese Parker.

Parker was hit and killed Friday night by a woman police say took off during a traffic stop.

That woman is currently being held in the Jefferson County Jail facing several charges.

Mayor Gary Richardson said this is a difficult time and he extends his condolences to the Parker family.

The crash happened after police say they tried to stop 25-year-old Emily Cochran of Sylacauga.

Officers said she was driving a Ford F-150 that was reported stolen out of Vestavia Hills Friday night and officers say Cochran sped off.

Officers chased the truck to the edge of the Midfield city limits, but police say Cochran drove into the other lane of traffic hitting Parker, who was thrown from her car and killed.

Mayor Richardson said his thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.

“We recognize that this is a very difficult time for them especially coupled with the holiday season and a loss of a family member during this time is even more exacerbating so we certainly want to extend our condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the family,” said Mayor Richardson.

Cochran faces multiple charges that include manslaughter, fleeing law enforcement-causing death, and stolen property 1st and 2nd degree.

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