COLUMBIA, Ky. (December 22, 2024) – Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 15 Troopers responded to a two-vehicle injury collision on KY 55 Bypass near the intersection with Pelham Branch Road in Adair County that occurred on December 21, 2024, at 4:30 P.M. CST.
The preliminary investigation revealed that Joel Hammack, 46, of Crossville, TN, was traveling south on KY 55 Bypass in a 2016 Ford F150 at a high rate of speed. Mr. Hammack came upon a slower-moving 2018 Kia Sorento traveling south on KY 55 Bypass. The Kia Sorento was operated by Townya Ritzie, 62, of Columbia. Due to Mr. Hammock’s speed, his vehicle collided with the rear end of the Kia Sorento. The collision forced Ms. Ritzie’s vehicle off of the roadway where it overturned.
A juvenile passenger in Ms. Ritzie’s vehicle was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Adair County Coroner. Two passengers, Susan Morgan, 66, of Columbia, and a juvenile were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Another juvenile passenger and Ms. Ritzie were transported to the hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Mr. Hammack and a passenger in his vehicle, Walter Nichols, 45, of Bean Station, TN, were treated and released.
Joel Hammack was arrested and charged with Vehicular Homicide Under the Influence of Alcohol, DUI 4th Offense or Greater, Assault 1st Degree and Assault 2nd Degree (3 counts). Mr. Hammack was lodged in the Adair County Detention Center.
Upon arrival at the collision, first responders were met by Walter Nichols, who was unruly as they attempted to aid those involved. Walter Nichols was subsequently arrested and charged with Assault 3rd Degree (EMS, Fire, Rescue Squad), Assault 4th Degree (Minor Injury), Terroristic Threatening 3rd Degree, Disorderly Conduct 2nd Degree and Alcohol Intoxication in a Public Place. Mr. Nichols was lodged in the Adair County Detention Center.
KSP Post 15 Troopers were assisted at the scene by the Adair County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia Police Department, Columbia Fire and Rescue and the Adair County Coroner’s Office. Senior Trooper Weston Sullivan is investigating the collision.
(Trooper Jonathan Houk – Kentucky State Police)