A work zone incident in Taylor County claimed the life of a Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) employee on Friday, Aug. 23, 2019.
An investigation by the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office indicates Keith Jewell, 44, was killed when he was struck by a contractor’s truck in a work zone on KY 70 near Mannsville at approximately 4:50pmET. Jewell was treated at the scene by Taylor County EMS and taken to Taylor Regional Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
“We offer our deepest sympathies and prayers to the family, friends and co-workers of Mr. Jewell, following Friday’s tragic accident in Taylor County,” said Gov. Matt Bevin. “Our dedicated state transportation employees perform vital work every day to ensure safe travel for all Kentuckians. Our hearts are broken for the Jewells and the entire KYTC family during this very difficult time.”
KYTC Secretary Greg Thomas also expressed his sympathy following the incident. “On behalf of the Transportation Cabinet, I want to extend heartfelt condolences to Keith’s family, friends, and District 4 colleagues,” said KYTC Secretary Greg Thomas. “Keith was a dedicated member of the KYTC family, and we honor his nearly 20 years of service to the Commonwealth. We grieve with the Jewell family as they deal with this sudden and tragic loss.”
A long-time employee of the Cabinet, Jewell worked his way up through the District 4 system, eventually becoming a Highway Superintendent and most recently serving as a Highway Technician.
"Keith's years of dedication and comradery will be sorely missed here,” said District 4 Chief District Engineer Paul Sanders. “It’s nearly impossible to come up with words to convey how hard a loss like this is for the District 4 family. We offer our most sincere condolences to the Jewells as we remember them in the difficult days ahead."
Visitation is at Cowherd & Parrott Funeral Home in Greensburg, KY on Tuesday, Aug. 27th, 2019 from 1:00-8:00pmCT, and Wednesday, Aug. 28th, 2019 from 7:00amCT until the funeral service at 2:00pmCT. Burial will follow at Maple Hill Cemetery.