Jamestown, KY (April 21, 2025) – A devastating single-vehicle accident early Sunday morning in Russell County has claimed the life of one child and injured two others. The crash occurred just after 1 a.m. on Sano Mount Olive Rd and has led to serious criminal charges against the driver involved.
Medics and fire crews worked to assist those suffering from injuries after the collision. Kentucky State Police (KSP) reported that a 2009 Chevrolet HHR, driven by 31-year-old David King of Columbia, veered off the right side of the road and struck a tree.
One juvenile passenger was rushed to Russell County Hospital but was later pronounced dead by the Russell County Coroner. A second child sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to the University of Kentucky Hospital for advanced care. A third juvenile was treated at Russell County Hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
David King was arrested at the scene and faces multiple felony charges, including Vehicular Homicide Under the Influence of Alcohol, DUI (3rd offense), two counts of Assault 1st Degree, three counts of Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree, Reckless Driving, and Failure to Wear Seat Belts. He is currently being held at the Russell County Detention Center as the investigation continues.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family of the young victim.
Our thoughts remain with all those affected, especially the injured children, as they continue their recovery.
DUI and Child Passenger Safety in Kentucky
Tragic incidents like the fatal crash on Sano Mount Olive Rd bring renewed attention to the dangers of impaired driving and the vulnerabilities of child passengers. Kentucky law strictly penalizes individuals who drive under the influence, particularly when their actions result in death or injury. The penalties for DUI-related fatalities are severe, and rightfully so given the irreversible consequences.
According to the Kentucky Office of Highway Safety, child passengers involved in impaired-driving crashes are far more likely to sustain serious injuries or die, especially if proper restraints are not used. In this case, charges related to seat belt violations further emphasize how a lack of safety measures can compound the devastation.
Parents and caregivers are urged to always ensure that children are secured in age-appropriate car seats or seat belts. Drivers must also understand the profound responsibility of transporting minors—especially when impaired judgment and reckless behavior can turn a routine drive into a life-altering tragedy.
Kentucky communities, particularly in rural regions like Russell County, continue to advocate for stronger awareness and enforcement of impaired driving laws. Educational campaigns, sobriety checkpoints, and stricter penalties are all part of the effort to protect families and save lives.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a serious crash, reach out to Local Accident Reports for assistance.
