HODGENVILLE, Ky. — A Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) contract worker died after being hit by a vehicle in LaRue County on Tuesday morning.
Around 9 a.m., Kentucky State Police (KSP) was called to investigate a fatal collision involving a van and a highway worker near the 3100 block of Old Elizabethtown Road (KY210).
Police said James Henry, 74, of Louisville, was driving eastbound on Old Elizabethtown Road when he entered a part of the road that was reduced to one lane, due to routine maintenance operations. KSP said Henry didn't see Blake Barnes, 22, of Elizabethtown, who was in the eastbound lane of the road flagging traffic, and ended up hitting him.
Barnes was pronounced dead on the scene. Henry received no injuries.
KYTC Secretary Jim Gray said their "hearts ache" for the loss of Barnes.
"We extend our sincere condolences to all those impacted by this tragedy. Please join us in lifting up the families, friends and colleagues in your thoughts and prayers. The safety and well-bring of all employees is a top priority, and we are working with authorities as they review the incident. The contracted employee was part of a maintenance operation on KY 210 in LaRue County when he was struck by a vehicle. Out of respect for the privacy of the individual's loved ones and until we have a clearer understanding of the events, we have no further details at this time."
Barnes was also a volunteer for the Rolling Fork Fire Department. The department made a post on Facebook saying:
"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of one of our own; Firefighter Blake Barnes. Blake succumbed to injuries' he received working this morning at his job. Please keep his family, Rolling Fork FD and those responders in your thoughts and prayers. Details will be posted as they become available. Rest Easy Brother....."
Old Elizabethtown Road was closed for several hours to allow authorities to investigate the accident and redirect traffic.
KSP was assisted at the scene by the LaRue Co. Sheriff’s Department, LaRue Co. Coroner, LaRue Co. Fire Department and the LaRue Co. EMS.
The crash remains under investigation.
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