Kentucky State Police, along with the Kentucky State Highway Department, will close a short portion of Jamestown Street (KY55) in Columbia near KSP Post 15 this evening, October 1st at 6:00 P.M. Central Time for a candlelight vigil honoring the life of Trooper Hayden Phillips. 

The road closure will occur on Jamestown Street at the Bomar Heights Street intersection, beside Speedway, down to the intersection of the 49 exit for the Cumberland Parkway. 

Motorist needing to reach Columbia, via the Cumberland Parkway, will need to utilize the 46 exit instead of the 49 exit.  The closure is anticipated to last approximately 2-3 hours. 

With deer activity and collisions on the rise, Team Kentucky is reminding drivers that the best defense against a deer-related crash is to stay alert, slow down and buckle up. New crash data shows Kentucky experienced a seven-year high of 3,411 deer collisions in 2025, underscoring the importance of safe driving habits as peak deer movement season gets underway along roadways statewide.

“With deer active this time of year, especially at dawn and dusk, motorists should stay focused, slow down in areas where deer are present and always wear a seat belt.,” said State Highway Engineer James Ballinger. “A few extra moments of caution can help prevent a serious crash.”

According to the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, deer movement typically increases during the fall as mating season begins and food sources shift. Deer often travel farther distances during October, November and December, making roadway encounters more common.

Kentucky State Police data shows deer crashes have climbed each year since 2020, resulting in an overall 18.2% increase over the past five years.

While crash numbers increased last year, data showed a positive downward trend in deer crash-related fatalities with none reported in 2025, compared with six fatalities in 2024. Thirty people were reported to have been seriously injured in these crashes. Nearly half of all deer collisions occurred during the final three months of the year. November recorded the highest number of crashes with 823 reported collisions, followed by October with 394 and December with 330. Together, those three months accounted for nearly 46% of all reported deer crashes in 2025.

“October to December is mating season for deer, a time when deer activity peaks as males roam further afield to locate females,” said Joe McDermott, deer program coordinator for the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources. “Fall also pressures deer to move in search of food and shelter as cover foliage disappears, crops are harvested and natural food sources are depleted. Drivers should be aware that they could see deer crossing quiet lanes and busy highways at any time during the season, particularly at dawn and dusk.”

Kentuckians should drive with caution, especially at sunrise and sunset when deer are most active. Crash data also shows deer-related collisions are most common during evening commuting hours and periods of low light. The highest crash totals occurred between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., with 304 crashes reported at 6 p.m., 242 at 7 p.m. and 281 at 8 p.m., highlighting the need to drive alert at dusk and in the evening.

Among Kentucky counties, Hopkins County recorded the highest number of reported deer collisions in 2025 with 134, followed by Hardin County (118), Muhlenberg County (95), Nelson County (95) and Boone County (94). Several western Kentucky counties ranked among the highest for deer crashes, continuing a pattern seen in recent years.

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Co. issues a yearly report of collisions involving deer and other wildlife based on insurance claims. Despite a national decrease in wildlife-involved collisions, for the year ending June 30, 2025, State Farm reported more than 1.6 million animal collision claims in the United States, and deer remain the most frequently struck animal.  

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) offers these driving tips to stay safe:

• Stay Aware: Be vigilant, especially in forested terrain, and during dusk and dawn when deer are most active. Deer often travel in groups so others may be close behind if you see one.
• Be Prepared: Always wear a seat belt (it’s the law) and eliminate distractions (phones down!).
• Turn On Headlights: Keep them on bright unless other vehicles are approaching.
• Slow Down: Take your foot off the gas immediately if you spot a deer crossing the roadway.
• Don’t Swerve: Trying to avoid a deer can result in a more serious crash with an oncoming vehicle or roadside object.
• If There’s a Crash: Keep both hands on the wheel and apply brakes steadily until stopped.

Motorists are asked to report all deer-vehicle collisions to police. KYTC traffic engineers use the crash data to help place deer-crossing warning signs and other safety measures. 

Kentucky was one of 17 states to receive a federal grant in 2024 to make roadways safer for people and wildlife. The $1.2 million award funded a wildlife-vehicle collision reduction plan and a pilot study in central Kentucky. Analysts examined vehicle collisions along the U.S. 60/Interstate 64 corridor in Jefferson, Shelby and Franklin counties where white-tailed deer are involved in a high number of collisions and collected data to understand deer habitat and behavior patterns using drones, GPS collars, trail cameras and field surveys. KYTC is continuing its assessment to identify infrastructure solutions to reduce wildlife-vehicle collisions.

WASHINGTON — Today, the U.S. Postal Service announced the recommended mailing and shipping dates for the 2026 holiday season.

For expected delivery before Dec. 25, the Postal Service advises customers to send mail and packages by the following dates:

2026 Holiday Shipping Dates for Contiguous U.S. (Lower 48 States)

•       USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 17
•       First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
•       Priority Mail: Dec. 18
•       Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19

2026 Holiday Shipping Dates for Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and U.S. Territories

•       USPS Ground Advantage service: Dec. 16
•       First-Class Mail: Dec. 17
•       Priority Mail: Dec. 18
•       Priority Mail Express: Dec. 19

For a complete list of suggested dates to send packages to military or international addresses, the Postal Service recommends visiting the USPS holiday shipping page beginning mid-Oct.

During the holiday season, customers should always plan to mail and ship packages early to ensure arrival by Dec. 25.

For tips on mailing and shipping preparation, ordering free shipping supplies, packaging guidelines (including restricted and prohibited item information), and Post Office location hours, visit usps.com or the USPS YouTube channel.

Information to help customers prepare for the busy holiday season can be found on the USPS Holiday Newsroom at usps.com/holidaynews.

Casey County Fiscal Court’s regular session focused on holding Spectrum accountable for damage and poor oversight during its countywide fiber build while preserving the project’s long-term benefits.

Opening approvals

Representing Spectrum, Benjamin U’Sellis is Director of Government Affairs for Charter Communications. He presented Spectrum’s apology for construction problems, including property disruption, unmarked vehicles, crop damage, and risks to water infrastructure during drought conditions.

Spectrum construction response

Spectrum said it had resolved 17 of roughly 25 complaints and would address the remaining cases within days. It committed to direct county contacts, more in-house crews, clearer contractor identification, English-speaking crew representation, and paid water-line spotters for future digging.

Protecting water and rights

Officials identified water supply protection as the immediate priority, noting residents already face limits on water use. Spectrum agreed to continue restoration and service work only, with no new trenching or expansion-area work until the court reviews progress and considers restoring right-of-way access.

The court paused new expansion work pending repairs and a right-of-way decision. The Court will meet with Spectrum again next Monday morning for review. The project represents an investment by Spectrum of more than $12.5 million in Casey County.

Taxes, roads, and visibility

The court accepted Extension District, ambulance, and Board of Education tax rates for filing purposes, including the school system’s 47.8 rate tied to a 4% revenue increase. It also began the process to remove Ronald Clemens Road from county inventory and required county vehicles to be clearly marked, except undercover sheriff’s vehicles.

Communications infrastructure

The court discussed new repeater sites and equipment buildings for Bryant Ridge, Sand Knob, and Dye Knob. The existing radio system is planned as a backup at the Smith Road cell tower under a newly secured 20-year tower-use agreement.

Liberty City Council hosted a special called meeting yesterday to approve the second reading of an ordinance on the tax rate keeping the same rate as last year.

Mayor, Dr. Sam Haddad …

Emergency crews in Casey County responded to a serious vehicle?versus?horse?and?buggy crash Thursday afternoon on KY 837 in the Bethelridge community.

The collision happened shortly before 5 p.m. when the driver of the vehicle was reportedly blinded by the sun and unable to see the buggy in time to avoid impact…

Authorities say three children were airlifted to UK Hospital, while two additional children were taken by ambulance to Somerset.

According to the latest update, two boys have been released from Somerset and are now home with family. Three children remain in the ICU at UK, all on breathing tubes. One of the girls is reported to be in critical condition with brain swelling.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Senate Majority Floor Leader Max Wise, R-Campbellsville, shared Kentucky’s approach to childhood cancer research with an international audience Wednesday, highlighting a decade of legislative action that has turned family advocacy into sustained state investment, expanded research and new opportunities for children facing cancer.

Wise spoke at the Childhood Cancer International Annual Conference in San Antonio, held in conjunction with the International Society of Paediatric Oncology Congress. The conference brings together childhood cancer survivors, parents, advocates, health care professionals and organizations from around the world to share strategies for improving outcomes for children and adolescents with cancer.

For Wise, the issue reaches far beyond his role in the legislature. His son is a long-term survivor of stage IV neuroblastoma, an experience that has shaped Wise’s work on childhood cancer policy throughout his Senate service.

“When a doctor tells you your child has cancer, everything else in life gets very small very quickly,” Wise said. “Our family knows the fear that comes with that diagnosis, but we also know what research, exceptional medical care and hope can mean. I have carried that experience with me every time we have worked on this issue in Frankfort.”

Wise sponsored Senate Bill 82 in 2015, establishing the Kentucky Pediatric Cancer Research Trust Fund. The fund provides a structure for supporting pediatric cancer research and treatment in Kentucky and is administered by a board established in state law.

What began with legislation has grown through sustained funding by the General Assembly. Kentucky first appropriated $5 million to the trust fund in 2018, followed by additional investments in subsequent years. The 2024 Legislative Session resulted in $14 million being allocated to the trust fund.

Wise and lawmakers continued that commitment in 2026, providing another $14 million over the 2026-28 biennium. House Bill 500 directs $5 million per fiscal year to general pediatric cancer research and to the expansion of clinical trials at the University of Kentucky (UK) and the University of Louisville (UofL). House Bill 900 provides an additional $2 million to the trust fund each fiscal year.

“Kentucky did not arrive here because of one bill, one budget or one person,” Wise said. “Parents who refused to accept the status quo came to Frankfort and made lawmakers understand what was at stake. Researchers showed us what was possible. My colleagues in the General Assembly continued investing because we could see that those dollars were building something meaningful.”

The results presented by Wise at the conference show how that commitment has yielded results.

The Kentucky Pediatric Cancer Research Trust Fund reports supporting 63 research projects, including psychosocial research, and seven family support projects. The presentation also cites $4 million in federal grants awarded to Kentucky, development of clinical-grade CAR-T immunotherapy, a multicenter Phase 1 medulloblastoma trial and efforts to recruit leading pediatric cancer researchers and providers. Funded projects have resulted in 111 presentations and publications, according to the conference presentation.

One statewide project highlighted during the presentation brings together researchers at UK and UofL to study inherited cancer risk in young people. More than 260 patients have enrolled. The program uses genetic sequencing of more than 120 cancer-related genes, with positive findings reviewed to determine whether additional testing, preventive action or earlier detection may benefit affected family members.

The need remains significant.

Kentucky Cancer Registry data presented at the conference show 2,775 Kentucky children and adolescents were diagnosed with cancer from 2013 through 2022. The data also show Kentucky children had the fifth-highest cancer incidence rate compared with other states during the period examined.

“That is why this work cannot be measured only by what we have spent,” Wise said. “It has to be measured by what we are building, and that is stronger research, better treatment options, talented people choosing to do this work in Kentucky and, ultimately, more children getting the chance to grow up. If Kentucky’s experience can help another state build that same commitment, then it is worth sharing my story, and Kentucky's story.”

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Wise has served in the Kentucky Senate since 2015 and currently serves as Senate majority floor leader.

A Science Hill, Ky., man, Samuel Turner, 42, was convicted on Monday by a federal grand jury sitting in London for four counts of wire fraud. The jury returned the conviction after three hours of deliberation. 

According to evidence at trial, Turner gained access to an elderly family member’s bank accounts and credit cards and used the funds as his own. With the victim’s money, he bought, among other things, guns, concert tickets, items from Amazon, and items from a gun accessory store.  He also cashed out a certificate of deposit worth over $35,000 belonging to the victim. 

Jason Parman, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Olivia Olson, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; jointly announced the conviction.

The investigation was conducted by the FBI. The U.S. Attorney’s Office was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Mattingly Williams. Turner will appear for sentencing on January 6, 2027. He faces a maximum of 20 years in prison.

This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Mission, focusing on identifying and prosecuting those who facilitate elder financial exploitation.  The initiative is carried out locally through the Kentucky Elder Justice Task Force.

Anyone who knows of someone who may be a victim of elder financial exploitation, is encouraged to contact law enforcement or get more information by visiting https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice.

The great thing about donating blood is that just about anyone can do it. No “dough” is needed to make a difference in your community – all it takes is a little bit of time and a pint of blood.

Grab a slice of saving lives by donating blood at this upcoming drive with the Kentucky Blood Center. All donors will receive a “Grab a Slice of Saving Lives” T-shirt (while supplies last) as a thank you for adding a key piece to the blood supply.

South Fork Creek Community

Thursday, Oct. 1 from 3–7 p.m.

Evona Fire Department

Meeting Room

467 Sloan Fork Rd

Liberty, KY 42539

KBC, the exclusive provider of blood to most hospitals in Central and Eastern Kentucky, is coming off a difficult summer. Donations, as they often do in the summer months, suffered because of seasonal vacations, an absence of school blood drives and extreme temperatures, which deter donors from attending drives. At the same time, transfusions increased during trauma season when emergency rooms saw an uptick in severe, life-threatening injuries, many of which required blood.

Fall blood drives like this one in your community are important to restock hospital shelves. Because blood cannot be manufactured, the health of the local blood supply relies entirely on the generosity of Kentucky donors.

Blood donors must be at least 17 years old (16 with parental consent), weigh at least 110 pounds, be in good health, show a photo I.D. and meet additional requirements. Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome. To schedule a donation, visit kybloodcenter.org or call 800.775.2522.

About Kentucky Blood Center

KBC, the largest independent, full-service, nonprofit blood center in Kentucky, has been saving local lives since 1968. Licensed by the FDA, KBC’s sole purpose is to collect, process and distribute blood for patients in Kentucky. KBC provides services in 90 Kentucky counties and has donor centers in Lexington, Louisville, Frankfort, Pikeville, Somerset and the Tri-County area (Corbin).

Secretary of State Michael Adams announced that 318,918 deceased voters have been removed from Kentucky’s voter rolls since he took office, bringing the total number of removals since January 2020 to 753,181.

“We’ve vigorously purged voters who have moved away, passed away, or been put away,” said Adams. “Kentucky is a national success story for clean elections.”

In August, 3,664 voters were removed: 3,233 deceased voters, 258 who moved out of state, 74 duplicate registrations, 65 who were adjudged mentally incompetent, 18 who voluntarily de-registered, 9 identified as non-citizens, and 7 felony convicts.

Despite ongoing list maintenance, Kentucky’s voter registration continues to surge with 8,266 new voters registering in August. Net registration rose by 4,602. Democratic registration accounts for 41 percent of the electorate, with 1,371,014 voters. Democratic registration rose by 260 voters, a .0019 percent increase. Republican registration constitutes 48 percent of the electorate, with 1,624,505 voters. Republican registration grew by 1,849 voters, a .11 percent increase. There are 386,382 voters registered under other political affiliations (mostly Independent), making up 11 percent of the electorate. “Other” registration jumped by 2,493 voters, a .65 percent increase.

FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the Commonwealth of Kentucky to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by the severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, landslides and mudslides from June 26-30, 2026.

Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair and replacement of facilities damaged by the disaster in Bullitt, Butler, Clinton, Cumberland, Garrard, Grayson, Green, Hardin, Henderson, Jackson, Jessamine, Madison, Meade, Mercer, Metcalfe, Ohio, Owsley, Rockcastle, Spencer and Wayne counties.

Leda M. Khoury has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected areas. Additional designations may be made if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

Liberty mayor, Dr. Sam Haddad, and former Casey County Judge Executive, Garland Hoskins dropped by our studio this morning for an update on Lake Liberty... 

Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 in Columbia has charged two Edmonton residents following an animal cruelty investigation in Metcalfe County.

The preliminary investigation found that Michael W. York, 34, and Natasha N. York, 36, kept more than 200 dogs on their property. Many of the dogs had not received the required rabies vaccinations, and several were found suffering from dehydration, internal parasites, malnutrition, and other health conditions. One dog was suffering from a broken leg.

Trooper Trent Tooley conducted the investigation in collaboration with Guardians of Rescue, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting the well-being of animals.

“My primary concern throughout this investigation was the welfare of these animals. They depend on people to provide them with proper care, and when that responsibility is neglected, they have no way to speak for themselves,” Trooper Tooley said. “Seeing the conditions some of these dogs were living in was difficult, but I’m proud we were able to take action and begin getting these animals the help they needed.”

As a result of the investigation, both individuals were charged with Cruelty to Animals, 2nd Degree, and Dogs to Be Vaccinated Against Rabies.

Kelly Basham, Director of Operations and Investigations for Guardians of Rescue, says accountability is something their organization takes seriously.

“We are incredibly thankful for our relationship with the Kentucky State Police and for their continued partnership and support,” said Basham. “Working together allows us to safely reach, remove, and protect animals who have suffered for far too long.”

KSP Post 15 Captain Jeremy Smith said Tooley’s commitment to seeing this case through and advocating for these animals reflects the professionalism expected of our Troopers.

“I have a deep respect for animals, and I believe every animal deserves to be treated with proper care and compassion,” Smith said. “What Trooper Tooley uncovered during this investigation is unacceptable. These dogs were completely dependent on their owners, and they deserved better. We will continue to pursue this investigation and hold those responsible accountable.”

The investigation remains ongoing.

Two men died in separate drowning incidents on Lake Cumberland over the weekend — one in Russell County, one in Pulaski County.

About two hours after Russell County crews pulled a man from the water, responders in Pulaski County located another victim near Pitman Creek.

The coroner’s office says Ricky Turner, 66, of London, jumped from a boat Saturday and never resurfaced. The Somerset?Pulaski County Rescue Squad searched through the evening before suspending operations overnight. Turner’s body was found around noon Sunday. His death is being investigated as a possible drowning.

In the earlier incident, Andy W. Schmidt, 42, of Lexington, was recovered by Russell County Search and Rescue and confirmed to have drowned. Toxicology results are pending.

Authorities say the two incidents do not appear to be related.

Barry Lee addressed the magistrates with a report from the Economic Development Authority…

Kay Brown was appointed for another term on the ambulance board. Steven Garrett was appointed to the board to fill a vacancy left by Algie Atwood.

Under road business, rural secondary road operations were announced for Kentucky 1547 and Kentucky 243.

Magistrates also approved a request by the City of Liberty to pay for half of the operational costs for pumping water from the Green River into Lake Liberty. The bill for the last 30 days was $9,000 each for the County & the City.

Liberty City Council met in a special called session Monday.

Here’s Mayor Dr Sam Haddad…

Pulaski Co. Sheriff Bobby Jones reports that two teen boys have been taken into
custody in connection with a homicide that occurred on August 12 th in
Pulaski County.

The victim, Sherri Mitko, was found deceased inside her residence on
Lower Line Creek Road on August 12 th . She had suffered multiple
gunshot wounds.

The Sheriff’s Office’s Criminal Investigation Division responded to the
scene and began to develop information and evidence in the
investigation.

As a result of the evidence and information obtained, the two teens
were both charged with Murder on August 16 th .

Sheriff Jones emphasized that the Sheriff’s Office is continuing to
follow up on any leads and conduct a thorough investigation. Sheriff
Jones wants Pulaski County citizens to be aware that this is an
isolated incident and there is no public safety risk at this time.

A Junction City, Ky., man, Darion Ford, 26, was sentenced on Thursday to 10 years by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. 

In December 2024, law enforcement began investigating that Ford had recently re-upped a large supply of narcotics from Lexington. On December 18, 2024, Ford was observed leaving his residence and was stopped by law enforcement. When law enforcement talked with Ford, he stated that he had a gun and placed it on his console. He also had three bags containing powder and tablet forms of fentanyl.

Ford told law enforcement that he had approximately 1,000 fentanyl pills and seven grams of fentanyl powder at his residence. Law enforcement seized approximately 85.146 grams of fentanyl that Ford intended to distribute. Ford also possessed the firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities.   

Jason Parman, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Jim Scott, Special Agent in Charge, DEA, Louisville Field Division; and Chief Tony Gray, Danville Police Department, jointly announced the sentence.

The investigation was conducted by the DEA and Danville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Chapman and Amanda Morgan prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. 

Secretary of State Michael Adams announced that, in July, 8,598 new Kentucky voters registered, with Kentuckians outside the two major political parties once again showing their interest in November’s election.

“In July, more Independents registered to vote in Kentucky than Republicans and Democrats combined,” Adams said. “Neither party can prevail in a statewide race with only its base; both must reach out to the center.”

In July, net registration rose by 4,981, with 3,617 voters removed: 2,650 who were deceased, 401 felony convicts, 275 duplicate registrations, 213 who moved out of state, 60 adjudged mentally incompetent, 12 who voluntarily de-registered and 6 identified as noncitizens.

Republican registration constitutes 48 percent of the electorate, with 1,622,656 voters. Republican registration grew by 2,483 voters, a .15 percent increase. Democratic registration accounts for 41 percent of the electorate, with 1,370,754 voters. Democratic registration fell by 32 voters, a .002 percent decrease. There are 383,889 voters registered under other political affiliations (mostly Independent), making up 11 percent of the electorate. “Other” registration grew by 2,530 voters, a .66 percent increase.

First responders in Casey County were dispatched to a medical emergency involving a newborn baby that had just been delivered. There was initially some confusion over the location…

Radio traffic later clarified that the location was Sacred Heart Catholic Church, which is located near the intersection of US 127 and KY 70.

Somerset Police say Ryan Hughes, 41, of Waynesburg—the Lancaster chief of police—was cited for DUI after a crash Friday night on North Highway 27 near Cooperative Way.

Officers say Hughes’ vehicle caught fire, and a passerby pulled him out, reporting he smelled strongly of alcohol. Police noted slurred speech, glossy, bloodshot eyes, and the odor of alcohol. Hughes allegedly admitted having “a few drinks” an hour before driving.

The crash caused about $500 in damage to a right?of?way fence. Hughes was taken to the hospital, asked for an attorney, and initially refused a blood test. He later consented after officers obtained a search warrant. Results are pending.

Hughes is charged with DUI and first?degree criminal mischief. He’s scheduled for arraignment on August 10.

Rescue crews were called to the Green River near Soggy Bottoms Campground Saturday after fast?moving water swept a group of boaters off their tubes and rafts. One person was briefly reported missing but was later found, and no injuries were reported.

Officials say at least 40 responders from multiple agencies assisted. Casey County Rescue Squad member Brandon Long says no one in the group was wearing a life jacket and debris in the water made conditions dangerous.

Long says confusion over how many people were missing slowed the response because no one stayed at the campground to give information. He called the incident a teachable moment and urged people to know river conditions, wear life jackets, and tell someone their route before floating.

The rescue happened as Casey County remains under a water shortage emergency, but officials warn that pop?up storms can still cause the river to rise quickly.