Authorities in Kentucky are investigating a deadly two-vehicle collision that occurred Sunday afternoon in Oak Grove, leaving one man dead and others injured. The crash took place around 3 p.m. on October 12 at the intersection of Kentucky Highway 117 (KY-117) and U.S. Highway 41 (US-41), prompting a swift response from the Kentucky State Police (KSP) and local emergency services.
According to preliminary findings, a 53-year-old Hopkinsville man driving a pickup truck allegedly failed to obey a traffic control signal at the busy intersection. His vehicle then collided with a car driven by a 26-year-old woman, which had 55-year-old Tony Kilsby of Clarksville, Tennessee, as a passenger. The impact caused severe damage to both vehicles and resulted in multiple injuries.
Emergency responders arrived quickly and began administering aid to the victims. Kilsby, who suffered critical injuries, was airlifted to Tennova Healthcare for emergency treatment. Despite efforts by medical personnel, he was later pronounced dead. The other individuals involved received medical care at the scene and nearby hospitals, and their injuries were described as non-life-threatening.
Authorities temporarily shut down the intersection while investigators and cleanup crews worked to document the scene, clear debris, and restore traffic flow. Both lanes were reopened several hours later. KSP troopers noted that no charges have been filed at this stage, but the investigation remains ongoing, including reviews of witness statements, physical evidence, and potential mechanical factors from the vehicles involved.
Officials have not confirmed whether weather or road conditions contributed to the crash. However, they reminded drivers that intersections like KY-117 and US-41 can be particularly hazardous due to heavy traffic and crossing routes. Law enforcement emphasized the importance of obeying signals, maintaining awareness, and reducing speed—especially in high-traffic areas where even brief distractions can lead to devastating outcomes.
Residents of Oak Grove and nearby Hopkinsville expressed condolences to Kilsby’s family, calling the incident a heartbreaking tragedy. Many noted that the intersection where the crash occurred is known for congestion and complex traffic patterns. The Kentucky State Police continue to gather data from witnesses and nearby cameras to determine exactly what led to the fatal collision. Updates will be shared as the investigation progresses.