Tragedy in Gulfport: Liz Thornburg Killed, Three Injured After Vehicle Crashes Into Coast Radio Group Building
GULFPORT, MS — A devastating vehicle crash into the Coast Radio Group building has left one woman dead and three others injured, shaking the Gulfport community and prompting renewed concerns over driver safety and building security.
The tragic incident occurred Friday afternoon, August 1, 2025, just before 3:00 p.m., when a vehicle traveling along Lorraine Road suddenly veered off the road and slammed directly into the side of the Coast Radio Group office complex. Inside the building at the time was 59-year-old Liz Thornburg, a longtime employee and beloved figure within the local broadcasting community. Thornburg was critically injured during the impact and, despite emergency efforts, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the vehicle, along with two other individuals—believed to be employees or visitors within the building—were transported to nearby hospitals with varying injuries. Their current conditions have not been officially released, though authorities have indicated that all three sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The name of the driver has not been made public as the investigation remains active.
According to Gulfport Fire Chief Billy Kelley, initial reports suggest that the vehicle may have lost control either due to a mechanical failure or driver impairment. Surveillance footage is being reviewed, and a full accident reconstruction team is working with local law enforcement to determine the cause of the crash.
“This is a terrible tragedy, and our hearts go out to the family of Ms. Thornburg and all those affected,” Chief Kelley stated. “We’re working diligently to understand what happened and to make sure this type of incident can be prevented in the future.”
The Coast Radio Group, home to multiple beloved local stations, has been a pillar of the Gulfport community for decades. Liz Thornburg had worked there for over 20 years, serving in a variety of roles including receptionist, office manager, and most recently, community outreach coordinator. Colleagues described her as the “soul of the building,” always ready with a warm smile, a kind word, or a cup of coffee for a stressed coworker.
“Liz wasn’t just a colleague—she was family,” said Jack McAllister, a morning show host at the station. “She kept us grounded, made the place feel like home. I don’t know how we’ll go on without her.”
Outside the damaged building, mourners have already begun leaving flowers, candles, and handwritten notes. A memorial wall has been set up by staff, and the radio station went silent for a full minute during its morning broadcast Saturday to honor Thornburg’s life.
Listeners also flooded the station’s social media pages with tributes, many sharing personal stories of Liz’s kindness and warmth. One post read, “I called the station once to ask about an event, and Liz ended up helping me find a food pantry for my kids. She didn’t have to do that. She just cared.”
The crash caused significant structural damage to one side of the building, which has since been cordoned off pending further safety inspection. Operations at Coast Radio Group have been temporarily moved to a nearby location as the building undergoes evaluation and repair.
City officials expressed condolences and promised a thorough investigation.
“This loss is felt deeply throughout our community,” said Gulfport Mayor Billy Hewes. “Liz Thornburg represented the best of us. We must honor her memory by supporting her family and ensuring our public infrastructure and safety measures continue to be evaluated and improved.”
As the community grapples with this senseless tragedy, Thornburg’s family has asked for privacy as they mourn the sudden loss of a cherished mother, sister, and friend. A public vigil will be held at the Gulfport Community Center on Monday evening.
Liz Thornburg is survived by her two adult children, Christopher and Jenna, and her three grandchildren. Funeral arrangements will be announced in the coming days.
While the Coast Radio Group mourns the loss of one of its most treasured members, the legacy of Liz Thornburg—a woman remembered for her laughter, generosity, and unwavering kindness—will continue to echo across the Gulf Coast airwaves she helped shape for so many years.