McCreary Co., KY (June 5, 2025) — A devastating crash in McCreary County on Wednesday afternoon left two people dead following a chain of collisions that ended with an all-terrain vehicle being forced off the road and into the woods.
Authorities say the incident unfolded around 2 p.m. near the 10-mile marker on U.S. 27 in the Parker's Lake area. According to the McCreary County Coroner, a white Toyota Highlander was first involved in a minor sideswipe collision with a car about a mile before the fatal impact. The SUV reportedly continued traveling along the highway, where it clipped a three-wheeled motorcycle, causing only minor damage, before veering across the center line.
The Highlander then struck an oncoming ATV head-on, pushing it off the road and into a wooded area. Tragically, both drivers—74-year-old Roger Stanton, who was operating the ATV, and 77-year-old Linda Moncrief, the driver of the SUV—were pronounced dead at the scene.
The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under investigation.
We want to offer our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased victims.
All-terrain vehicle (ATV) accidents are an all-too-common and tragic occurrence in Kentucky. Each year, the state reports hundreds of ATV-related incidents, many of which result in serious injury or death. Despite safety warnings, fatal ATV crashes continue to affect families across rural and suburban communities alike. Unfortunately, many of these tragedies could have been avoided—reckless or negligent behavior is often to blame.
Whether it’s speeding on backroads, riding under the influence, or crossing into oncoming traffic, negligent operation of vehicles—including ATVs—poses a serious threat to everyone sharing the road. National data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission shows that Kentucky ranks among the top states for fatal ATV crashes. From distracted driving to alcohol use, many of these incidents are preventable.
Drunk or impaired ATV operation accounts for thousands of deaths annually, while distracted or careless driving continues to be a leading cause of serious off-road collisions. Even experienced riders are at risk when others fail to operate their vehicles responsibly.
Losing a loved one in an ATV crash is a heartbreaking and life-altering experience. In Kentucky, these tragic accidents often stem from another party’s carelessness—whether it’s a negligent driver, poor road conditions, or a lack of safety oversight. When a preventable ATV crash claims a life, the surviving family members may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim.
At the Byrnes Law Office, our compassionate wrongful death attorneys are here to support families dealing with the devastating loss of a loved one in an ATV accident. We understand the pain, confusion, and financial burdens that come with such a sudden tragedy. Our team is committed to seeking accountability and justice on your behalf.
By filing a wrongful death claim, you may be able to recover compensation for funeral and burial costs, lost income, loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and more. Our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation, gather critical evidence, and aggressively represent your interests, both in and out of court.
Let us shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on healing. Call 502-364-2500 to speak with a Henderson wrongful death lawyer who understands what you're going through and is ready to fight for your family’s rights. You don’t have to go through this alone—we’re here to help you find answers, accountability, and a path forward.
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Disclaimer: The Byrnes Law Office is dedicated to improving safety for Kentucky drivers. Our goal is to raise awareness about the dangers of driving and the need to use caution. This is not a solicitation for business, and none of the information constitutes legal or medical advice. Photos in this post are not of the actual accident scene.