Christopher “Howie” Wilks dies in fatal Boyd County car crash

Christopher “Howie” Wilks dies in fatal Boyd County car crash

Fatal Boyd County car crash death of Christopher “Howie” Wilks

According to reports from the local authorities, a significant accident occurred in the Whites Creek region of Boyd County, resulting in the loss of one life. The incident transpired on Saturday evening, around 10 p.m., at the point where Whites Creek Road and Friendship Road meet, as stated by the Boyd County Coroner, Mark Hammond.

Initial assessments by the investigators indicate that the involved car was on Friendship Road and departed the roadway, subsequently tumbling several times before stopping in a nearby field. Following the accident, the vehicle began to ignite, as communicated by the Coroner’s Office.

The individual behind the wheel has been confirmed as Christopher “Howie” Wilks, who is 18 years old and from Catlettsburg, Kentucky. Wilks was not secured by a seatbelt and was thrown from the automobile during the mishap.

Coroner Mark Hammond explained, “The situation was entirely due to excessive speed and the nature of the road, which lacks safety barriers. Such conditions can easily lead to accidents, and this one unfortunately proved to be more severe.”

Wilks was declared deceased at the scene by the Coroner’s Office.

Residing nearby, Cindy McKnight expressed the community’s grief, noting, “It was simply heart-wrenching. I was watching the Reds game when I heard a large explosion. Usually, we experience gunfire in this rural area, but such a loud bang at that hour is unusual, making me realize something was seriously wrong.”

Wilks was set to begin his senior year at Boyd County High School in the upcoming week.

McKnight further remarked, “The passing of a child on our street is truly heartbreaking. I extend my prayers to his family, hoping they receive support during this challenging time.”

The authorities are still examining the accident, with the Boyd County Sheriff’s Office, Kentucky State Police, and the Coroner’s Office involved. Responding agencies also included the East Fork, England Hill, and Big Sandy Fire Departments, along with Boyd County EMS and Boyd County-Catlettsburg-Ashland Emergency Management.