A tragic two-vehicle crash in Breathitt County claimed the life of one driver and critically injured another on Tuesday morning, December 24. The collision occurred around 8:50 a.m. on KY-30 West in the Canoe community, drawing a swift response from Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 13 troopers and medical personnel.
Preliminary investigations revealed that 27-year-old Jordan Gross, a Canoe resident, was driving westbound when his vehicle hit a patch of black ice. The hazardous road conditions caused Gross to lose control, crossing the center line and colliding head-on with an eastbound vehicle. The impact left Gross fatally injured, and he was pronounced dead at the scene by the Breathitt County Coroner’s Office.
The driver of the second vehicle, whose identity has not been disclosed, suffered critical injuries. They were airlifted to the University of Kentucky hospital for emergency treatment. As of now, their condition remains serious, and further updates on their recovery have not been released.
Authorities noted that neither driver was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Toxicology reports are pending to determine whether any substances may have played a role in the accident. These findings, combined with the ongoing investigation by KSP’s Trooper Branden Watts and Detective Brandon Thomas, will be critical in understanding the full scope of the incident.
The tragic collision underscores the inherent dangers of winter driving conditions, particularly black ice. This invisible hazard often forms on roadways during freezing temperatures, making it nearly impossible for drivers to detect. The accident serves as a stark reminder for drivers to exercise extra caution, especially during winter months.
The Breathitt County community is reeling from the loss of Jordan Gross and the serious injuries sustained by the other driver. Local residents are reflecting on the importance of safety measures such as wearing seat belts, which could potentially reduce the severity of injuries in such accidents. Additionally, the incident may spark further conversations about winter driving preparedness and road safety awareness in areas prone to black ice.
As Kentucky State Police continue their investigation, they encourage anyone with information about the crash to come forward. The findings from this case will not only provide answers to the grieving families but also highlight the critical need for vigilance on the roads during winter weather.