Breathitt Co., KY – Two Killed in Head-On Crash on KY Hwy 15 in Watts Community

Breathitt County, KY (April 23, 2026) – Two people died following a three-vehicle head-on collision on Wednesday, April 22, on Kentucky Highway 15 in the Watts community of Breathitt County. Emergency units responded to the scene at approximately 11:13 a.m.

A preliminary investigation found that Brandon Combs, 36, was driving a Dodge Avenger southbound when he crossed the center line into the northbound lane and struck a Toyota Camry driven by Deanna Noble, 30, head-on. The force of the initial crash pushed Noble's Camry into the path of a northbound commercial vehicle, causing a secondary collision.

Both Combs and Noble suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene. The Breathitt County Coroner's Office responded to the scene and authorities sent both bodies to the Medical Examiner's Office in Frankfort for autopsies.

Authorities continue to investigate and reconstruct the crash. 

We extend our sincere condolences to the families of Brandon Combs and Deanna Noble during this incredibly difficult time.

What Should Families Do After a Fatal Car Accident in Kentucky?

After a fatal crash in Kentucky, state law allows certain family members to file a wrongful death claim when a loved one dies as a result of another person's negligence. In a case like this, it is important to preserve the details of the crash, including the police report, reconstruction findings, and any available evidence, to help determine what options the family may have.

The financial impact of losing a family member in a crash can be significant. Funeral and burial expenses, lost future income, and the loss of companionship are among the damages that Kentucky wrongful death law may allow families to seek compensation for. 

Kentucky follows a comparative fault system, which means that a court may consider the conduct of all parties involved when determining compensation. 

Families dealing with the aftermath of a fatal crash often face questions about timing as well. In Kentucky, wrongful death claims are generally subject to a one-year statute of limitations from the date of death. Missing that deadline can prevent a family from pursuing compensation altogether. Speaking with a wrongful death attorney early in the process helps ensure that no critical deadlines are missed.

At Byrnes Law Office, we have years of experience reviewing wrongful death and serious injury cases across Kentucky. We can help families understand what options may be available, explain how the legal process works, and provide clear information during a difficult time. 

If you have questions, contact Byrnes Law Office at (502) 364-2500 to speak with our team and learn more about your available options after a fatal crash.

Note: Our writers use external sources such as news briefs, police scanners, and eyewitness reports when creating this post. While we aim for accuracy, the information hasn't been independently verified by our team. If you spot any errors, please inform us promptly for correction. If you'd like the post removed, please contact us, and we'll act swiftly. Your feedback helps us uphold our standards.

Disclaimer: 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.