Fort Gay, WV (May 11, 2026) – A 21-year-old Kentucky man was killed Monday in a head-on crash involving a tractor-trailer on U.S. Route 52 near Cedar Heights Road in Fort Gay, according to West Virginia State Police.
Troopers from the Wayne Detachment responded to the scene after receiving reports of the collision. Investigators said Braden N. Murry, driving a Toyota Rav4 northbound, crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a southbound tractor-trailer. Murry was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities confirmed that Murry’s next of kin have been notified. The crash remains under investigation, as troopers work to determine what factors may have contributed to the vehicle crossing into oncoming traffic.
Emergency crews responded quickly to the scene to secure the area and assist with traffic management. Drivers traveling through the Cedar Heights Road area are urged to exercise caution and be aware of ongoing investigations and any lane closures.
We extend our condolences to the family of the victim during this difficult time.
The Risks of Crossing the Centerline
Collisions caused by crossing the centerline can happen for a variety of reasons, including driver fatigue, distraction, impaired driving, or sudden evasive maneuvers. State police encourage motorists to always stay focused and maintain control of their vehicle, especially on highways with oncoming traffic.
Head-on collisions with large commercial vehicles are among the most dangerous types of crashes, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities due to the significant difference in size and weight between passenger vehicles and tractor-trailers. Troopers remind drivers to stay attentive, maintain safe speeds, and avoid distractions, particularly on rural highways like U.S. 52 where roads can be narrow and visibility limited.
