TRAGIC CRASH IN BRECKINRIDGE COUNTY CLAIMS THREE LIVES, INCLUDING 1-YEAR-OLD CHILD – COMMUNITY RALLIES AROUND SURVIVING MOTHER
Breckinridge County, KY — A heartbreaking tragedy has struck Breckinridge County, Kentucky, as three lives were lost in a devastating head-on collision that occurred over the weekend. Among the victims were a young father, his 1-year-old daughter, and the driver of the other vehicle. The crash has sent shockwaves through the tight-knit community, leaving friends and family in mourning and sparking a community effort to support the sole survivor.
According to the Kentucky State Police (KSP), the deadly collision took place just after 5 p.m. on Saturday, July 26, on Kentucky Route 261. Preliminary investigations reveal that a vehicle driven by 48-year-old Joseph Maynard veered across the center line and collided head-on with an SUV carrying 24-year-old Hunter Lyons, his wife Macey Lyons, and their toddler daughter, Oakleigh.
Authorities reported that both Hunter Lyons and baby Oakleigh were pronounced dead at the scene. Joseph Maynard, the driver of the second vehicle, also died as a result of the crash. The cause of Maynard’s unexpected lane departure remains under investigation, and toxicology results are pending as part of the ongoing case.
The sole survivor, 23-year-old Macey Lyons, sustained severe injuries and was airlifted to a hospital in Louisville. As of Wednesday, she remains in critical but stable condition, surrounded by family as she recovers from the physical and emotional trauma of losing her husband and only child during what was meant to be the happiest chapter of her life — their honeymoon.
Family members and close friends have since confirmed that the young couple had recently married and were still celebrating their union. “They were just starting their life together,” said family friend Danielle Collins. “Hunter was so full of life, and Oakleigh was their whole world. It’s unthinkable.”
Community Support and Fundraiser
As the Lyons and Maynard families begin to process their unimaginable losses, the community has rallied together to support Macey and cover funeral and medical expenses. A benefit has been organized for Saturday, August 3, at Calhoun Baptist Church on Main Street. Organizers say all proceeds will directly support Macey’s medical bills and the burial costs for Hunter and Oakleigh.
“This family needs all the love and help they can get right now,” said organizer Tammy Reid. “We’re heartbroken, but we’re determined to be there for Macey in every way we can. No one should have to face this kind of pain alone.”
In addition to the fundraiser, a GoFundMe page has also been created, with thousands of dollars already raised in just a few days. Supporters from across Kentucky and beyond have expressed their condolences and offered prayers for Macey’s healing.
Ongoing Investigation
Kentucky State Police troopers are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash. At this time, they have not confirmed whether speed, impairment, or mechanical failure may have played a role in Maynard’s vehicle crossing into the opposing lane. Investigators are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has relevant information to contact the KSP Post 4 office in Elizabethtown.
As the investigation continues, friends of the Lyons family are urging the public to drive cautiously and hold their loved ones close. “Life is so fragile,” said one mourner at a vigil held Tuesday night. “We just can’t take a single moment for granted.”
For those interested in donating or attending the benefit for the Lyons family, please visit the Calhoun Baptist Church this Saturday. More details will be shared on community bulletin boards and social media.
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