73-Year-Old Arnold Oney of Grayson, Kentucky, Tragically Killed in Multi-Vehicle Collision on Route 10 in Logan County, West Virginia
LOGAN COUNTY, WV – April 24, 2025 — A devastating multi-vehicle collision on a notoriously hazardous stretch of Route 10 in Logan County has claimed the life of a 73-year-old man from Kentucky and left another individual hospitalized. The accident, which occurred earlier this week, has reignited long-standing concerns about road safety in the southern West Virginia region.
According to initial reports from the WCHS Network, the victim has been identified as Arnold Oney, a resident of Grayson, Kentucky. Authorities say Oney was fatally injured when his vehicle was involved in a chain-reaction crash involving multiple cars. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but despite lifesaving efforts, Oney was pronounced dead from his injuries.
The other individual involved in the crash, whose name has not yet been released, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
Crash Details and Ongoing Investigation
The accident occurred on Route 10, a roadway well known among locals for its narrow lanes, sharp turns, and limited visibility in several areas. Preliminary findings suggest that one of the vehicles may have crossed the center line, sparking a series of impacts that quickly escalated into a full-scale multi-vehicle collision.
The West Virginia State Police and local emergency crews responded promptly, and investigators are now working to piece together exactly how the crash unfolded. While the official cause of the accident has not yet been determined, inclement weather and road conditions at the time may have been contributing factors.
Traffic in both directions was brought to a halt for several hours as crews worked to clear debris and investigate the scene. State troopers redirected motorists to alternate routes, resulting in widespread delays throughout the area.
Remembering Arnold Oney
Friends and family members of Arnold Oney describe him as a kind-hearted and hardworking man who was beloved in his hometown of Grayson, Kentucky. A retired coal miner and devoted grandfather, Oney was known for his deep roots in Appalachia and his dedication to community and family.
“He was the kind of person who would do anything for anyone,” said a family spokesperson. “Losing him this way is heartbreaking.”
Plans for a memorial service are currently underway, with loved ones calling for improvements to roadway safety so that no other family has to suffer a similar loss.
Route 10 Safety in Question
This latest fatal crash is not the first time Route 10 has made headlines. The rural highway, which stretches through several counties in West Virginia, has long been cited as one of the most dangerous in the state. Over the years, local leaders and residents have voiced repeated concerns over its outdated infrastructure and lack of critical safety features.
Calls for widening the road, installing guardrails, adding more signage, and improving lighting have been consistent — yet many of these requests remain unmet due to funding limitations and bureaucratic hurdles.
Logan County Commissioner David Thompson commented on the tragedy: “We’ve been sounding the alarm about Route 10 for years. How many more lives have to be lost before meaningful action is taken? We owe it to our residents — and now to the Oney family — to make real changes.”
Community Reaction and Next Steps
The community has responded with an outpouring of support for the Oney family, with neighbors, churches, and local organizations rallying around those affected. A candlelight vigil is being planned near the site of the crash to honor Oney’s life and raise awareness for road safety reform.
Meanwhile, state transportation officials have acknowledged the accident and confirmed they will be conducting a full safety audit of the area. However, advocates worry that unless the tragedy translates into legislative urgency, improvements will remain elusive.
As Logan County mourns the loss of yet another life on its roads, the message from residents is clear: it is time for accountability, investment, and action.
If you witnessed the crash or have any relevant information, the West Virginia State Police urge you to contact the Logan County detachment at (304) XXX-XXXX.
This story will be updated as more details become available.