UNION, Boone County, Ky., Oct. 31, 2026 — One man died, and another was hospitalized after a two-vehicle crash on Thursday, October 29, at the intersection of Hathaway Road (KY 536), Riddles Run Road and Sullivan Road in Union, the Boone County Sheriff's Office said.
Deputies were sent to the scene around 9:59 a.m. for a reported injury crash with extrication. Investigators said a GMC Yukon had stopped at a stop sign on Riddles Run Road and was attempting a left turn onto Hathaway Road when it pulled into the path of an eastbound Dodge Ram 3500 pulling a trailer. Roadway evidence and witness accounts pointed to that turn as the cause of the collision.
A front-seat passenger in the Yukon, identified as 75-year-old Marlin Hensley of Union, was taken by Union EMS to a nearby fire station to meet an AirCare medical helicopter. He was pronounced dead before the helicopter arrived. The Yukon's driver was taken by Burlington EMS to UC Medical Center with injuries described as severe but not life-threatening. The driver of the Dodge Ram was not hurt.
The sheriff's office said speed and alcohol or drug impairment are not believed to have played a role, though both will still be examined as the investigation continues. No charges had been filed as of Thursday, and all parties involved were cooperating with investigators.
We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased.
Intersection Crashes in Kentucky
This fatal crash happened at Riddles Run Road and Sullivan Road in Union, KY. Our Kentucky intersections page covers intersection crashes across Kentucky.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does wearing a seat belt matter so much in a crash like this?
A seat belt keeps an occupant positioned in the seat during a sudden impact, cutting the chances of being thrown into part of the vehicle's interior or ejected. It remains one of the simplest ways to reduce the odds of serious injury or death in a collision.
What should a family do after a fatal crash?
Families can request the official crash report once it is released, usually through the investigating agency, and can ask that agency directly about the status of the investigation. Taking time before making decisions tied to the case is generally advised.
How do investigators determine fault in a crash like this one?
Investigators typically examine the roadway for skid marks or debris, interview witnesses, and may use crash reconstruction techniques to establish how each vehicle moved before impact. A specialized unit, as in this case, usually leads that work.
How long do fatal-crash investigations usually take?
Timelines vary by case complexity, but reconstruction and toxicology results can take weeks or longer to finalize before an agency closes its file or refers findings for prosecutorial review.
