Kentucky State Police Investigate Fatal Collision in Rowan County

MOREHEAD, Ky. (October, 7, 2025) –Just before noon today, Kentucky State Police (KSP) post 8 Morehead received a call of a two vehicle fatal collision on KY 519 at the Morgan and Rowan County line. 

Preliminary investigation indicates that Donnie Smith, 68 of West Liberty, was operating his Buick Rainier Southbound on KY 519 when he crossed the centerline striking several construction barrels before colliding head-on with a parked construction truck occupied by Anthony Thomas, 57 of Owingsville Kentucky. Mr. Smith was taken to St. Claire Regional Medical Center and was pronounced deceased by the Rowan County Deputy Coroner Derek Lewis. Mr. Thomas, the operator of the parked truck did not receive any injuries.

KSP was assisted by other KSP personnel, Rowan County EMS and Rowan County Coroner’s Office. This collision remains under investigation and is being reconstructed by Trooper Leo Leal. 

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