Kentucky State Police Investigates Fatal Collision on Lebanon Avenue in Taylor County
CAMPBELLSVILLE, Ky. (December 8, 2023) – On December 7, 2023 at approximately 12:44 P.M. EST, Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers were requested by the Campbellsville Police Department to respond to a three-vehicle injury collision. The collision had occurred on Lebanon Avenue near the intersection of Lakeview Drive in the limits of Campbellsville.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Billie Jo Roberts, age 46 of Michigan, was traveling south on Lebanon Avenue in a 2015 Ford Focus when she crossed the centerline of the roadway entered the northbound lane of travel, and struck a 1991 Honda Accord in a head-on manner. The Honda Accord was operated by Michael Smith, age 62 of Campbellsville. Mr. Smith attempted to avoid the collision through steering maneuvers but could not do so. A 1993 Pontiac Grand Prix operated by Shelby Druien, age 68 of Campbellsville, also collided with the rear of Ms. Roberts’ vehicle.
A passenger in Mr. Smith’s vehicle, Juliet Kirtley, age 87 of Campbellsville, was transported to Taylor Regional Hospital where she succumbed to her injuries. Ms. Kirtley was pronounced deceased at the hospital by the Taylor County Coroner. Mr. Smith was flown to the University of Kentucky Hospital with serious injuries. Both Ms. Roberts and Mr. Druien refused medical treatment at the scene.
Billie Jo Roberts was arrested and charged with DUI 1st offense (Aggravating Circumstances), Vehicular Homicide, Assault 2nd degree, Reckless Driving, and other traffic offenses. Ms. Roberts was lodged in the Taylor County Detention Center.
KSP Post 15 Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, Campbellsville Police Department, Campbellsville Fire and EMS, and Kentucky State Highway Department. The collision remains under investigation by Senior Trooper Weston Sullivan.
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