Kentucky State Police Investigates Fatality in Clay County

BIG CREEK, Ky. (March 31, 2026) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 11 in London is investigating a fatal collision that occurred on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at approximately 3:00 p.m. on the Hal Rogers Parkway near the 35-mile marker eastbound.

The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2022 Harley-Davidson motorcycle, operated by Sam K. Minton, 43, of Manchester, was traveling eastbound  when he lost control of the motorcycle and struck a guardrail on the right shoulder. Mr. Minton was not wearing a helmet at the time of the collision. He was treated at the scene by Clay County EMS and airlifted by AirEvac to the University of Kentucky Hospital, where he is currently listed in stable condition.

A passenger, Shelly M. Minton, 46, of Manchester was pronounced deceased at the scene by Clay County Coroner Jason Abner at 3:57 p.m. Mrs. Minton was not wearing a helmet. Next of kin has been notified.

At this time, drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be contributing factors; however, toxicology results are pending.

Detective Shane Bowling is leading the investigation and conducting accident reconstruction. He was assisted on scene by KSP personnel, the Big Creek Fire Department, Clay County EMS, Clay County Coroner and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office.

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