By Brian Smith
Heavy rains are being blamed for a two-car accident on KY 52 that sent one man to the University of Kentucky Medical Center in Lexington, where he remains in critical condition.
Christopher Hoover, 31, of Irvine, was traveling westbound on Irvine Road shortly after 4 p.m. Tuesday when heavy rain caused him to lose control and spin into the eastbound lane, according to Trooper Chris Lanham, Kentucky State Police spokesman.
Hoover’s 1986 BMW was struck by a 1996 GMC Jimmy being driven by 70-year-old Roy Cole, also of Irvine, Lanham said.
The BMW sustained “very severe” damage in the crash, Lanham said.
Cole and his passenger, 78-year-old Bessie Cole, also of Irvine, were transported to Pattie A. Clay Regional Medical Center, Lanham said. Bessie Cole suffered a chest injury in the accident, while Roy Cole was uninjured.
Both were wearing seat belts when the crash occurred, Lanham said.
Hoover was not wearing a seat belt, and suffered what are described as multiple injuries to his entire body, Lanham said.
He also was taken to Pattie A. Clay, but was later airlifted to Lexington.
The accident is still under investigation, Lanham said.
Brian Smith may be reached at bsmith@richmondregister.com or at 624-6694.
