Tragic Collision on Mountain Parkway: Two Lives Lost, Five Injured
In a devastating turn of events, Kentucky State Police reported two fatalities and three critical injuries following a head-on collision on the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway in Wolfe County. This tragic incident unfolded near the 47-mile marker, prompting an urgent response from local authorities around 3:50 p.m. on Tuesday.
According to preliminary findings, a 58-year-old man from Flat Gap, Kentucky, was traveling eastbound when his Town and Country minivan tragically veered into the opposing lane of traffic. This unexpected movement brought him head-on with a Hyundai Elantra driven by a 32-year-old resident of Summerfield, Florida.
Among those who lost their lives in this harrowing accident were Robbin Burchett, aged 56, from Paintsville, Kentucky, a passenger in the minivan. Her life was claimed at the scene, as confirmed by Wolfe County Coroner Frank Porter. Meanwhile, the minivan’s driver suffered only minor injuries and received medical attention at St. Claire Regional Medical Center.
The Elantra carried Katelyn Harmon, 27, from Salyersville, Kentucky, who also succumbed to her injuries at the scene. The vehicle’s driver endured serious harm and was rushed to Morgan County ARH in West Liberty, where he remains in critical condition. Adding to this grim scenario, two young children were passengers in the Elantra; a 9-year-old girl is critically injured while a 2-year-old boy sustained minor injuries but has been deemed stable.
The ongoing investigation aims to uncover more details surrounding the circumstances of this fatal crash. As officials continue their work, communities across Kentucky are reminded of the importance of road safety, particularly on mountainous and challenging terrains like those found on the Bert T. Combs Mountain Parkway.
In light of recent weather events, including Winter Storm 2026, concerns over icy conditions may have played a role in this tragedy, highlighting ongoing risks for drivers during adverse weather periods. Local authorities urge caution and preparedness as they face additional challenges posed by these environmental factors.
The community mourns the loss of Robbin Burchett and Katelyn Harmon while hoping for swift recoveries for those critically injured. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of life’s fragility and the critical need for vigilance on our roadways.
For ongoing updates, readers are encouraged to follow local news sources as further details emerge from this heartbreaking event.