MCCREARY COUNTY, KY — The community of Parkers Lake is reeling from a heartbreaking tragedy following a fatal crash that claimed the lives of Pearl Goodin, 68, and her husband, James Goodin, 73. The deadly accident occurred on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, along U.S. Highway 27 in the Stearns area of McCreary County.
According to the Kentucky State Police, Pearl Goodin was driving a Toyota SUV when the vehicle suddenly veered off the road for reasons that remain under investigation. After colliding with a guardrail, Pearl attempted to regain control of the vehicle, but the SUV overcorrected, leading it to roll over several times before coming to rest.
Emergency personnel responded swiftly to the scene. Tragically, Pearl Goodin was pronounced dead at the scene by the McCreary County Coroner. Her husband and passenger, James Goodin, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital, where he later passed away from his injuries.
Seatbelt Use and Ongoing Investigation
Authorities reported that neither Pearl nor James Goodin was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Both were ejected from the vehicle, a factor that significantly worsened the impact of the accident and likely contributed to their fatal injuries.
As part of their ongoing investigation, Kentucky State Police are conducting toxicology screenings to determine whether any medical conditions or substance-related factors played a role in the crash. At this time, no evidence of alcohol or drug involvement has been found.
Investigators are continuing to reconstruct the events leading up to the rollover, with special attention to driver overcorrection, a common and dangerous factor in many highway accidents.
A Community in Mourning
The deaths of Pearl and James Goodin have left a profound void in their hometown of Parkers Lake, where the couple was well known and deeply loved. Their sudden and tragic passing has prompted an outpouring of grief from neighbors, friends, and family members who are now left to navigate life without two of their most cherished members.
As the community gathers to mourn their loss, many are reflecting on the importance of driver safety, particularly for aging motorists, and the critical need for seatbelt use, regardless of distance or destination.
A Somber Reminder
This accident underscores the tragic consequences that can result from momentary loss of control behind the wheel. Overcorrecting, especially on high-speed roadways like U.S. 27, can quickly escalate into devastating rollovers. Authorities continue to urge all drivers to remain calm during unexpected driving situations, always wear seatbelts, and avoid oversteering maneuvers that can compromise vehicle stability.
The Kentucky State Police extend their condolences to the Goodin family and the broader Parkers Lake community. No further updates have been released at this time, but the investigation remains ongoing.
Pearl and James Goodin will be remembered for their warmth, partnership, and enduring presence in the lives of those who knew them. May their memory be a blessing, and may their tragic passing serve as a powerful call for greater road safety awareness.
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