Co-workers remember Makyah Mackey after tragic Corvette Drive collision

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Family and friends are remembering Makyah Mackey after she lost her life due to injures sustained from a head on collision on May 2.

According to Bowling Green police, officers responded to a head-on collision in the 400 block of Corvette Drive May 2.

Nineteen-year-old Mackey and 20-year-old Dajuan Sykes were involved in the crash. Mackey was transported critically to The Medical Center at Bowling Green, where she later died due to her injuries.

Sykes was charged with vehicular homicide amongst other charges after police say he was driving under the influence and chasing another car.

Mike Jackson, CEO and owner of Ski Daddy’s on River Place Avenue in Bowling Green, said Mackey was a ball of light.

“You know her legacy would be, you know, if you don’t know Christ, get to know Christ. She was very bubbly. Every time that I saw her, she was never in a bad mood,” he said.

Jackson was her boss at Ski Daddy’s. He was also one of the very last people to see Mackey before the car crash that changed multiple lives.

He recalled how a normal night turned into a nightmare. 

“The last night of what I could remember was payday. She asked me ‘could she get her check’ and I got it out of the office and gave it to her like a typical Saturday. I said, ‘have a great weekend’ and she said, ‘you too, Mike, and we’ll see you next week’…not knowing the tragedy that was about to occur,” Jackson said.

That night shattered many hearts, and Mackey’s name filled social media with who she was and how her spirit impacted the City of Bowling Green with her kindness.

“We felt like we lost one of our own. but that doesn’t compare to her family. her mother and what they’re going through. but it took a big piece out of us all,” Jackson said.

Friends and family are remembering her for the smile that brightened any room, her personality and her love for art. Jackson recalled a portrait given to his wife from Mackey a day before the tragedy.

“My wife loved it,” he said.

While two families are mourning the incident that happened that Saturday night, Jackson says it’s not only important to drive safe, but he sends his prayers to the other family involved.

He said, “Your decisions do have consequences, and I pray for that young man. This is something that he has to deal with for the rest of his life.”

Dajuan Sykes’ mentor, Larry Turnley, said that accountability is a virtue. He says two young lives are gone and changed forever.

“We all make poor choices however some people poor choices it will cost them their freedom and it will cost them their lives. To the family who lost their daughter, my heart goes out to you. I know there’s no words or anything that can ease that you are experiencing right now,” Turnley said.

Makyah Mackey’s funeral is at 11:30AM, May 8th at 450 Glen Lily Rd. Visitation starts 9AM-11:30AM.

The case remains under investigation.