Hazard, KY (March 23, 2026) – A serious two-vehicle crash at a busy intersection in Perry County left two people dead and a Kentucky State Police trooper injured on Sunday, March 22.
Emergency units responded shortly after 11:00 a.m. to the intersection of KY-80 and Perry Circle Road in Hazard after reports of a major accident involving a state police vehicle and another passenger car.
Officials said a trooper from a local state police post traveled east on KY-80 while responding to an emergency call. At the same time, a vehicle traveling west attempted to turn left onto Perry Circle Road.
Authorities said the turning vehicle moved into the trooper’s path at the intersection. The two vehicles collided, causing severe damage and serious injuries.
The driver and a passenger inside the civilian vehicle died at the scene. Officials later identified the victims as Edward Dewayne Reynolds, 69, of Mallie, and Christa Slone, 50, of Leburn.
First responders also treated the trooper involved in the crash. Paramedics transported the trooper to Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center with serious injuries before transferring the officer by helicopter to a hospital in Lexington for further care.
Investigators documented the crash scene and began reviewing the sequence of events that led to the collision. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
We extend our sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in this accident. We also wish those hurt a rapid recovery.

After a Hazard car accident, the most important steps include seeking medical care, reporting the crash, gathering information, and keeping records related to the incident. These actions help protect your health and create documentation that may become important during insurance claims or legal reviews.
Medical attention should come first after any injury accident. Some injuries appear right away, while others develop hours or days later. People often experience neck pain, back injuries, or head trauma after a collision.
A medical evaluation helps identify these conditions early and creates records that link the injuries to the crash.
Reporting the accident also plays an important role. Law enforcement officers often prepare an official crash report that documents the vehicles involved, statements from drivers, and conditions at the scene. Insurance companies frequently review these reports when determining how an accident occurred.
It also helps to gather as much information as possible. Photos of vehicle damage, contact information from witnesses, and copies of medical bills can help build a clear record of events. Organized documentation makes communication with insurance companies easier and helps track recovery and treatment.
Kentucky follows a choice no-fault insurance system for many auto accidents. Drivers often carry Personal Injury Protection coverage, which may help pay initial medical expenses after a crash. When injuries become serious or expenses exceed coverage limits, other insurance claims may come into play depending on the situation.
A car accident lawyer can review accident reports, medical records, and insurance documents to help explain how Kentucky law may apply. Legal guidance may also help people understand what types of compensation may be available depending on the details of the collision.
If you have questions after a car accident in Kentucky, speaking with a legal professional may help you better understand your options. Our team at Byrnes Law Office has extensive experience reviewing accident cases and explaining available paths forward.
We can discuss how insurance communication, medical expenses, and documentation may apply to your situation. To learn more about your options, contact Byrnes Law Office at (502) 364-2500 to speak with our lawyers.
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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.