Hebron, KY (June 19, 2026) – A 45-year-old pedestrian lost his life after being struck by a tractor-trailer on westbound I-275 near the 11-mile marker in Hebron late Wednesday, June 17.
According to the Boone County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the scene at approximately 11:30 p.m. after receiving reports of a collision involving a pedestrian. Investigators said a Kenworth tractor-trailer operated by Michael Ferris of Richmond was traveling westbound on I-275 when it struck Nicholas Justice of New Boston, Ohio.
Authorities reported that Justice was standing in the highway at the time of the collision for reasons that have not yet been determined. He sustained critical injuries and was pronounced dead while being transported to UC Medical Center. No other injuries were reported in connection with the crash.
Detectives indicated that severe weather and limited visibility were contributing factors, along with the presence of the pedestrian in the travel lanes. The interstate remained closed for approximately three hours while crews investigated and cleared the scene before reopening. The investigation into the fatal crash remains ongoing as officials continue gathering evidence and reviewing the circumstances involved.
Our sincere condolences go out to the family, friends, and loved ones of Nicholas Justice.
Why Visibility Conditions Are Important in Highway Pedestrian Crashes?
Pedestrian incidents on high-speed roadways present significant challenges for motorists and investigators alike. When a person is present in active travel lanes, drivers may have only a limited amount of time to identify the hazard and react. Visibility conditions can become especially important when crashes occur at night or during severe weather events.
Investigators reviewing these collisions typically examine roadway lighting, weather conditions, vehicle speeds, and sight distances. They may also analyze witness statements, physical evidence, and vehicle damage to better understand how the crash occurred and whether the driver had an opportunity to avoid the collision.
Highways are generally designed for continuous vehicle travel rather than pedestrian activity. As a result, unexpected roadway obstructions can create dangerous situations for everyone involved. Understanding the environmental and traffic conditions present at the time of a crash can help investigators establish a clearer sequence of events.
