KSP NEWS RELEASE
(Wickliffe, KY) – The Kentucky State Police, Post 1 Mayfield, was notified by the Ballard County Sheriff’s Office, of a two vehicle collision on April 6, 2016 at 6:05 P.M. on US51 one-half mile south of Wickliffe, KY.
Preliminary investigation shows that Charles E. Oliver, 50, of Charleston, MO, was operating a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado Pickup Truck traveling northbound on US51. Michael W. Skees, 40, of Fredonia, KY was operating a 2012 Freightliner Semi Tractor Trailer traveling southbound on US51. For an unknown reason, Oliver crossed the centerline and traveled under the trailer portion of the oncoming Semi Tractor Trailer. Oliver was pronounced dead on scene by the Ballard County Coroner. Skees was not injured in the collision.
Preliminary investigation shows that Oliver was not wearing his seat belt. Alcohol is not believed to be a factor in this collision. An autopsy has been scheduled by the Ballard County Coroner.
Trooper Cody Cecil, is continuing the death investigation. Trooper Jody Cash is conducting the collision reconstruction.
KSP was assisted by the Ballard County Sheriff’s Office, Wickliffe City Fire Department, Ballard County Fire Rescue, Ballard County EMS, Carlisle County Constable, Carlisle County Sheriff’s Office, Kentucky Department of Transportation, Ballard County Emergency Management, and the Ballard County Coroner’s Office.