Campton, KY – One Killed, Woman Critically Injured in Crash at KY-15 & Mattie Graham Rd

Campton, KY (March 13, 2026) – An elderly man died and a woman suffered critical injuries after a two-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon, March 12, at the intersection of KY-15 and Mattie Graham Road in eastern Kentucky.

Emergency units responded around 4:15 p.m. after reports of a serious collision at the rural intersection near Campton. According to the Kentucky State Police, the crash involved a red Jeep and a 2010 Toyota.

Investigators said Candice Gabbard, 58, drove south on KY-15 in the Jeep when the vehicle crossed the center line. The Jeep then struck the Toyota driven by Courtney Berry, an 86-year-old resident of Campton.

Responders arrived and began assisting those injured in the collision. Paramedics transported Berry to Jackson Appalachian Regional Health for treatment.

Doctors later pronounced Berry dead from the injuries he suffered in the crash. Emergency crews also treated Gabbard at the scene before arranging air transport to University of Kentucky Hospital in Lexington.

Medical staff listed Gabbard in critical condition after the collision. Officials have not released additional details about her injuries or her current status.

Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the crash, including how the vehicles came together at the intersection. Authorities have not announced whether any charges or citations will follow.

The investigation into the fatal accident remains ongoing. 

We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the victim who lost his life, and our thoughts remain with the injured woman as she receives medical treatment.

How Long Families Have to File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in Kentucky

In Kentucky, families generally have one year to file a wrongful death lawsuit after a fatal accident. This deadline, known as the statute of limitations, usually begins when a personal representative files an estate for the person who died. Missing this time limit can affect a family’s ability to pursue compensation through the courts.

Wrongful death claims often arise after fatal traffic accidents, workplace incidents, or other serious events. These cases allow certain losses to be reviewed under Kentucky law. Potential damages may include funeral costs, medical expenses related to the injury, and financial support the person would have provided to family members.

Documentation plays an important role in these cases. Records such as hospital reports, accident investigations, employment information, and financial documents can help show the impact of the loss. Families often collect these records while managing estate matters and insurance communications connected to the incident.

Kentucky law also requires that a personal representative of the estate file the wrongful death claim. This person may be appointed through probate court and acts on behalf of surviving family members. Courts and insurers often review the available evidence to determine how damages may apply under state law.

Legal guidance can help families understand how the statute of limitations and estate rules apply to their situation. A wrongful death attorney can review documents, answer questions, and explain what legal options may be available after a fatal crash.

At Byrnes Law Office, we have experience reviewing accident cases and explaining how documentation, insurance communication, and wrongful death laws may apply in Kentucky.

If you would like more information about possible legal options, you can speak with our team at Byrnes Law Office at (502) 364-2500. 

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.