Authorities in Christian County, Kentucky, are investigating a tragic incident that claimed the life of 40-year-old Brandon Higgins of Hopkinsville on Wednesday night. According to the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, the fatal collision occurred along Madisonville Road near Mount Zoar–Latham Road, while deputies were responding to an unrelated law enforcement call.
Deputies said they were initially dispatched to a home on Morgan Lane after reports that a man — later identified as Higgins — had entered a residence without permission. The homeowner, who did not know him, asked him to leave, and Higgins reportedly left before deputies arrived. Moments later, authorities received another call reporting that a man matching Higgins’ description was walking near Madisonville Road.
Investigators say Higgins was standing near a guardrail when, for reasons still under investigation, he suddenly stepped into the roadway and into the path of an oncoming Christian County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle. The deputy attempted to stop but was unable to avoid the collision. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and rendered aid, but Higgins sadly did not survive. The deputy was not injured, and no other vehicles were involved.
As is standard protocol when a law enforcement vehicle is involved in a fatality, the Kentucky State Police (KSP) were called to assist with the investigation. KSP investigators worked through the night alongside the Sheriff’s Office to reconstruct the scene, gather physical evidence, and review body and dash camera footage from the patrol vehicle. The deputy has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
Officials reported that Higgins appeared to be in distress before the crash and may have been under the influence of alcohol or another substance, though toxicology results are still pending. The roadway was closed for several hours while investigators examined the scene and later reopened once the area was cleared.
Local residents have expressed sorrow and shock over the tragedy, extending condolences to Higgins’ family and to the law enforcement personnel affected. Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the investigation to proceed transparently. The Kentucky State Police will submit their findings to the Christian County Attorney’s Office once the review is complete.
