1 dead after vehicle collides with ambulance in Breathitt County

JACKSON, Ky. – One man is dead following a two-vehicle collision involving an ambulance in Breathitt County on Sunday.

According to the Kentucky State Police, troopers received a call regarding the collision around 1:51 a.m. Sunday on Kentucky 15 in the Jackson community.

Troopers say a preliminary investigation found 41-year-old John Southwood of Lost Creek was driving a 2010 Chevrolet Silverado northbound on Kentucky 15 when the vehicle crossed the center line and collided with a southbound Perry County ambulance that was returning to its station.

Southwood was pronounced dead at the scene by the Breathitt County Coroner’s Office.

Two ambulance crew members were transported to Hazard ARH Regional Medical Center for precautionary treatment.

The investigation determined Southwood was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the collision, authorities say.

Troopers say seat belts were being used by the other occupants involved. Toxicology results are pending, and an autopsy has been scheduled.

The collision remains under investigation.