Kentucky State Police Investigate Single Vehicle Fatality in Wolfe County

PINE RIDGE, Ky. (March, 22, 2026) – At approximately 10:30 a.m. Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 8 Morehead, received notification of a single vehicle fatal collision near the 1200 block of KY 715 in the Pine Ridge community of Wolfe County.

Preliminary investigation indicates that Darren Johnson, 23 of Beattyville, was operating a 2014 KIA Sorento Northbound on KY 715 when he crossed the centerline into the Southbound lane and continued off the roadway striking a tree. Mr. Johnson was pronounced deceased on scene by Wolfe County Coroner Frank Porter. His passenger Rebecca Peters, 29 of Beattyville, was airlifted from the scene to the University of Kentucky Hospital and is listed in critical condition. A minor child, 2 years of age, received only minor injuries and was transported to Kentucky River Medical Center in Jackson for treatment. 

KSP was assisted on scene by Wolfe County Sheriff’s Department, Wolfe County Fire and EMS and Wolfe County Coroner’s Office. This collision remains under investigation by Trooper Alexander Watkins, he is being assisted by Post level reconstructionist Jordan Barnett. 

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