Whitesburg, Ky. (March 21, 2019) – A Letcher County man died following a two-car collision in Whitesburg Thursday morning. Kentucky State Police Post 13 received a call at 6:59 a.m. advising of the crash on the Whitesburg Bypass. Whitesburg Police Department Officer Josh Little was the first on the scene, while KSP Trooper Bruce Kelley and Detectives Scott Caudill and Brandon Thomas arrived later to assist with the investigation.
The preliminary investigation into this crash determined that Michael T. Fugate was operating a 1994 Chevrolet Beretta northbound on KY 15, when the car crossed the center line and traveled into the southbound lane. Fugate’s car collided with a 2012 Toyota Camry being driven by 50 year old Cecilia Swiney of Jeremiah. Cecilia Swiney and a passenger in her car, 48 year old Angela Slone of Isom were transported to Whitesburg Appalachian Regional Medical Center. Swiney was later air-lifted to Holston Valley Medical Center in Kingsport, TN., where she is in critical condition. Angela Slone was treated and released. Michael T. Fugate, age 35 of Jenkins was pronounced deceased at the scene by Letcher County Coroner Renee Campbell. Seat belts were not in use in either vehicle.
Toxicology results from both drivers, which are collected during fatal crash investigation, are pending at this time. No autopsy will be performed. Detective Scott Caudill with KSP Post 13 is leading this investigation with assistance from Det. Brandon Thomas and Officer Josh Little.
