Whitley County, KY (August 5, 2025) – A serious collision in Whitley County resulted in injuries to a woman and her two children after another vehicle reportedly crossed the center line and struck them head-on. The crash, which occurred earlier this week, has led to criminal charges against the at-fault driver.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene and provided urgent medical care to the injured family. The female driver and her two children sustained a variety of injuries in the impact and were treated at the scene before being transported for further evaluation. Authorities have not yet released specific details about the extent of their injuries.
Deputies with the Whitley County Sheriff’s Office identified the driver of the oncoming vehicle as Jonathan McQueen. According to their report, McQueen’s car crossed into the opposite lane and struck the woman’s vehicle directly. He failed a field sobriety test administered on-site and was taken into custody. McQueen is now facing charges of DUI and wanton endangerment in connection with the crash.
The investigation into the incident remains ongoing as officials continue to gather evidence and assess the circumstances surrounding the collision.
We extend our deepest concerns to the woman and her children and hope for their complete and swift recovery.
DUI Crashes Involving Children in Kentucky
Crashes caused by impaired drivers remain a devastating and preventable issue on Kentucky roadways. The Whitley County incident, in which two children and their mother were injured due to a reported DUI, highlights the continued danger impaired drivers pose, especially on rural or less-monitored roads.
When a driver crosses the center line, it often results in a head-on collision, which is among the most severe crash types due to the direct force of impact. In this case, the injuries sustained by the children emphasize just how vulnerable passengers are, especially younger ones, when other motorists choose to drive under the influence.
Kentucky law classifies DUI-related crashes involving injuries and minors as particularly serious offenses. Wanton endangerment, one of the charges McQueen faces, reflects the level of disregard for the safety of others that law enforcement determined was present in this case. These charges carry significant legal consequences but also serve to underscore the devastating personal impact of such reckless decisions.
For victims, especially families with children, the aftermath of a crash like this may involve not only physical recovery but emotional trauma, extended time away from work or school, and ongoing financial strain. It is essential for those affected to access local support systems, from medical follow-up to trauma counseling and legal guidance.
If you or someone in your family has been hurt by an impaired driver, Local Accident Reports is here to support you. We connect victims with trusted community resources to help them recover, understand their rights, and begin rebuilding. Don’t face the aftermath alone; reach out today to get the help you need, when you need it most.
