Kentucky Community Mourns the Sudden Loss of 68-Year-Old Commonwealth Attorney Michael Stacy, Killed in Clinton Crash While Traveling on U.S. 51

CLINTON, KY — April 30, 2025 — The community of Clinton and the broader legal and civic circles across Kentucky are mourning the sudden and tragic loss of Michael Stacy, a respected Commonwealth Attorney, who died in a fatal car crash on Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Kentucky State Police (KSP), the accident occurred at approximately 3:21 p.m. on U.S. Highway 51, just outside of Clinton in Hickman County. Stacy, 68, was driving when, for reasons still under investigation, his vehicle veered off the road and collided with a tree. Emergency responders arrived on the scene quickly, but tragically, Stacy was pronounced dead at the scene.

A passenger in the vehicle survived the crash and was transported to a nearby hospital. Authorities reported that the passenger is currently in stable condition. Both individuals were confirmed to be wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

A Dedicated Public Servant and Advocate for Justice

Michael Stacy had long been a cornerstone of the western Kentucky legal system. As a Commonwealth Attorney, he built a reputation for integrity, legal rigor, and an unwavering dedication to justice. Throughout his career, he earned the admiration and trust of law enforcement, courtroom colleagues, victims’ families, and the broader community he served.

His sudden death has sent waves of grief through both his hometown and the legal community, with many remembering Stacy not only for his prosecutorial tenacity but also for his fairness and compassion.

Statewide Mourning and Tributes

Among the first to publicly honor Stacy’s memory was Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, who released a heartfelt statement on Tuesday evening.

“Mike Stacy is exactly who you wanted in a courtroom standing up for Kentuckians,” Coleman said. “As a prosecutor, he was tough, but fair. And as a public servant, he earned the respect of his colleagues and the families he served. I had the privilege to work with Mike throughout the years, and I’m devastated by his sudden loss in a motor vehicle accident today.”

Other tributes quickly followed from legal professionals, public officials, and members of the judiciary, each expressing a similar sentiment: that Stacy was more than a formidable attorney — he was a mentor, a friend, and a man who deeply cared about the people he represented.

Community in Shock

The town of Clinton, a tight-knit community in western Kentucky, has been left reeling in the aftermath of Stacy’s death. Flags outside local government buildings were seen lowered to half-staff, and plans are already underway for a public memorial to honor his decades of public service.

“Mike was a pillar of our town,” said Jennifer Collins, a local resident and friend of the family. “He gave so much of his time and energy to making this a better, safer place for all of us. Losing him this way is just heartbreaking.”

Ongoing Investigation

The Kentucky State Police, Post 1, is leading the investigation into the crash. Preliminary findings indicate that Stacy’s vehicle left the roadway under unknown circumstances before striking a tree. No other vehicles were involved. Authorities will continue to examine the scene and vehicle for mechanical issues, weather conditions, or any other contributing factors.

No foul play is suspected at this time, and KSP has commended the quick response of local EMS and law enforcement who arrived on scene.

A Lasting Legacy

Michael Stacy’s career spanned several decades, during which he led numerous high-profile prosecutions and mentored dozens of younger attorneys. Known for his calm demeanor in the courtroom and his meticulous preparation, Stacy stood as a model of principled legal advocacy in an era of increasing complexity in the criminal justice system.

He leaves behind family members, colleagues, and countless friends who will forever remember his unwavering commitment to justice and community.

Details regarding funeral services and memorials are expected to be released in the coming days. The Kentucky Attorney General’s Office has pledged support to the Stacy family and to the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office as they navigate this sudden and tragic loss.