Joshua K. Hale, 29, of Gamaliel, was killed in a traffic accident on Sunday, October 7.

According to Kentucky State Police Trooper Logan Richardson, who is investigating the accident, Hale was traveling eastbound on Alexander School Road in his Jeep when he failed to negotiate a curve. Hale’s vehicle then dropped off the roadway and struck a tree head on.

Richardson’s report continued that the Jeep then caught fire. Witnesses who were nearby attempted to free Hale from the wreckage but were unable to do so. Flames soon overtook the vehicle.

Hale was pronounced dead at the scene by Monroe County Deputy Coroner Tony High.

Richardson was assisted at the scene by Gamaliel Fire Department, Monroe County Ambulance Service and Monroe County Sheriff’s Department.