CASEY COUNTY, Ky. — A 20-year-old man from Liberty was killed early Tuesday morning after his horse-drawn wagon was struck from behind by a vehicle on U.S. Highway 127 in Casey County, according to the Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15.
The fatal collision occurred around 7:24 a.m. EST on October 21, 2025, near the intersection of KY 501. Investigators say John Gingerich, 20, was traveling northbound in a horse-drawn wagon when a Kia Sedona, driven by Jacob Goodman, 33, of Columbia, approached from behind. Due to the absence of rear-facing lights and a slow-moving vehicle reflective placard, the wagon was difficult to see in the dim early morning light.
Goodman reportedly did not notice the wagon until it was too late to stop, resulting in a violent rear-end collision. The impact caused significant damage to both the vehicle and the wagon. Emergency responders from Casey County EMS, the Dunnville Fire Department, and the Casey County Sheriff’s Office arrived quickly and began life-saving efforts. Gingerich was transported to Casey County Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead by the county coroner.
Goodman, the driver of the Kia, was not injured. However, three juvenile passengers in his vehicle sustained minor injuries and were taken to the hospital for evaluation and treatment. Authorities said all juveniles are expected to recover.
Detective Weston Sullivan of KSP Post 15 is leading the ongoing investigation. Police said that early findings point to visibility issues as a key factor in the crash but emphasized that no charges have been filed at this time as the investigation continues.
Officials are using the tragedy as a sobering reminder of the dangers of rural road travel, particularly where horse-drawn vehicles are common. “Drivers must stay alert on country roads and be prepared for slow-moving traffic, especially during early morning or evening hours,” KSP said in a statement.
The loss of John Gingerich has left the Liberty community mourning the death of a young man whose life was cut short in a heartbreaking and preventable accident.