Kentucky State Police report that 46 year old Joel Hammack of Crossville was charged with vehicular homicide while under the influence after he reportedly crashed into the rear of a car on KY 55 Bypass in Adair County, Kentucky on Saturday (12/21/2024). Hammack, according to Kentucky State Police, was traveling at a high rate of speed when he struck the rear of a Kia Sorento driven by Townya Ritzie of Columbia, KY. The crash forced Ritzie’s vehicle off the roadway where it overturned, resulting in the death of a juvenile and seriously injuring a 66 year old woman and a 2nd juvenile. Ritzie and a 3rd juvenile were also transported to a hospital for treatment of minor injuries. In addition to vehicular homicide, Hammack faces charges of DUI 4th offense or greater, 1st Degree Assault and 3 counts of 2nd Degree Assault. His passenger, 45 year old Walter Nichols of Bean Station, Tennessee was also charged with assault, terroristic threatening, disorderly conduct and public intoxication after he allegedly interfered with first responders.
Crossville man faces charges after deadly crash in Kentucky
Dec 22, 2024 | 7:36 PM