Driver in fatal Long Beach pedestrian accident identified

On 11-11-18, Long Beach Police Department, Harrison County Sheriff’s Department, Long Beach Fire Department, and Harrison County Fire Services, responded to the area of 28th Street and Simmons Drive for a report of a vehicle accident involving two pedestrians.

Upon arrival on scene both pedestrians were pronounced deceased.  They are identified as 49 year old Melissa Blanco of Gulfport and 61 year old Robert Gales of Long Beach.

Both subjects were struck by an eastbound vehicle driven by 61 year old Gerald Pittman of Long Beach.  Pittman was charged with DUI 1st Offense and was transported to a local hospital by AMR.

This case remains under investigation by the Long Beach Police Department, Harrison County Sheriff’s Department, and the Harrison County Coroner’s Office.