Community rallies behind Starkville officer as he continues recovery from motorcycle crash

STARKVILLE — Corporal Colby Huffman of the Starkville Police Department is making steady progress in his recovery following a serious motorcycle accident that left him critically injured, his family announced Friday.

Huffman, who was escorting a funeral detail on Feb. 21 when the crash occurred, was airlifted to the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson for intensive care. His family reports that neurologists are pleased with his recovery and that a recent CT scan shows his head injuries are healing well.

This week, Huffman reached important milestones in his rehabilitation. On March 3, he underwent surgery to repair a broken femur. Two days later, he had a tracheostomy to replace his endotracheal tube, a step aimed at helping him gradually breathe on his own. His family said doctors expect him to achieve independent breathing within days.

Looking ahead, Huffman’s family plans to travel Monday to the Shepherd Center in Georgia, a leading facility for traumatic brain injury rehabilitation, where he will continue intensive therapy.

Huffman, a dedicated member of the Starkville Police Department, was injured in the line of duty while serving the community. Officials and supporters continue to encourage residents to donate or participate in events as part of ongoing efforts to support the officer’s recovery.

To support Huffman and his family during this time, the community has organized fundraising efforts, including a GoFundMe page and a raffle sponsored by local businesses. Proceeds will help cover travel, food, and other expenses related to his recovery. GoFundMe donations can be made online, and raffle tickets are available at Triple A Jewelry, Army Navy Pawn Shop, True Grit Trading Post, or by contacting organizers through the Starkville PD’s Facebook page.

“Every bit of support will help ease the burden on our family and allow us to focus on being there for Colby during this challenging time,” his family said in a statement. “We are deeply thankful for the outpouring of prayers, encouragement, and generosity from our community.”

Anyone with information about supporting Corporal Huffman can contact the Starkville Police Department at 662-323-4200 or visit the department’s social media pages for updates.