Tragic Head-On Collision in Vicco, Kentucky Claims Life of 34-Year-Old Seth Edward Fawns; Investigation Underway
VICCO, KY – A devastating crash along a stretch of Highway 15 in Vicco, Kentucky, claimed the life of 34-year-old Seth Edward Fawns of Montgomery County on Monday, April 21, 2025. The fatal head-on collision, which occurred near the intersection of Georges Branch, has once again raised pressing concerns over road safety in the area, where locals say similar accidents have occurred in recent years.
According to the Perry County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews were dispatched to the scene of the crash during the early evening hours after receiving multiple 911 calls reporting a severe two-vehicle collision. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a chaotic and heartbreaking scene. One of the vehicles, driven by Fawns, had sustained catastrophic damage. Despite the rapid response by medical personnel, Fawns was tragically pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.
Two additional individuals, who were traveling in the second vehicle, were injured in the collision but are expected to survive. They were transported to Whitesburg ARH with non-life-threatening injuries. Authorities have not yet released the names of those individuals, citing ongoing efforts to notify extended family and gather further details.
The Perry County Coroner’s Office later confirmed the identity of the deceased as Seth Edward Fawns, a Montgomery County resident remembered by friends and family as a kind-hearted individual with a deep love for the outdoors and a strong sense of community. His untimely passing has left loved ones in shock and mourning.
“This is one of those moments that shakes an entire town,” said one local resident who arrived shortly after the scene was cleared. “That stretch of Highway 15 is known to be dangerous, and we’ve lost too many lives here. It’s heartbreaking.”
Law enforcement officials say the cause of the crash remains under investigation, and they are working to determine whether factors such as speed, distraction, or weather may have played a role. As of Tuesday, no charges have been filed, and both vehicles involved in the crash are being examined as part of a comprehensive accident reconstruction process.
The Kentucky State Police, along with Perry County deputies, have taken over the investigation. In the meantime, road safety advocates are calling for improvements in the region, including better signage, lighting, and more rigorous traffic enforcement measures to prevent future tragedies.
Highway 15 was temporarily closed in both directions following the accident but has since been reopened to traffic.
As tributes pour in on social media for Seth Fawns, many are reflecting on the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. A candlelight vigil is being planned by friends in Montgomery County to honor Fawns’ memory, while others are organizing support efforts for his grieving family.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that may assist in the investigation is urged to contact the Perry County Sheriff’s Office or Kentucky State Police Post 13 in Hazard.
This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that persist on Kentucky’s roadways and the importance of driving with caution—especially on rural highways where conditions can quickly become hazardous.