In Loving Memory of Michael David Stegall: Bardstown Mourns Tragic Loss in Downtown Crash
BARDSTOWN, Ky. — A deep sense of sorrow has settled over the Bardstown community following the tragic loss of 36-year-old Michael David Stegall of Nelson County, who was identified as the victim in a fatal single-vehicle crash early Thursday morning, July 24, 2025, near the historic Old Courthouse in downtown Bardstown.
According to local authorities, emergency responders were dispatched to the scene shortly after 2:00 a.m. following reports of a vehicle that had veered off the roadway and crashed near the intersection of Court Square and East Stephen Foster Avenue. Upon arrival, first responders discovered that Michael had suffered catastrophic injuries. Despite immediate efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Officials with the Bardstown Police Department stated that Michael was the sole occupant of the vehicle, and no other individuals were harmed in the crash. Preliminary investigations suggest that speed and possibly wet road conditions may have played a role, but a full investigation is still underway. Toxicology results and a final crash report are pending.
Michael David Stegall was a lifelong resident of Nelson County, where he was well known and deeply loved by family, friends, and neighbors. He graduated from Bardstown High School and worked in the local construction industry, where he earned a reputation for being both hardworking and generous with his time and talents.
Friends remember Michael for his infectious laugh, his easygoing nature, and his unwavering loyalty. He was someone who would drop everything to help a friend in need, often showing up with a smile and a can-do attitude. To his family, Michael was a source of joy and strength—a beloved son, brother, and uncle whose presence filled a room with warmth.
“Michael was the kind of person who made life a little brighter for everyone he met,” said one longtime friend. “He had a huge heart, and he wore it on his sleeve.”
In the hours following the accident, an impromptu memorial began forming near the crash site. Friends and loved ones placed flowers, candles, and handwritten notes in tribute to the man they affectionately called “Mikey.” Social media has also been flooded with messages of grief and remembrance, as members of the Bardstown community struggle to come to terms with the sudden loss.
A visitation and memorial service will be held in the coming days, with details to be announced by the family. Local clergy and community organizations are also offering grief support to those affected by the tragedy.
As Bardstown mourns one of its own, the community is also reminded of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing every moment with loved ones. Michael David Stegall’s legacy lives on in the memories of those he touched—with kindness, laughter, and love that will never be forgotten.
In this time of sorrow, the Stegall family asks for privacy and prayers as they navigate the unimaginable grief of losing Michael far too soon. They extend heartfelt thanks to the first responders and to everyone who has reached out with support and condolences.
May Michael’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.