Fatal Crash in Allen County Claims Life of 72-Year-Old Franklin Woman, Carolyn Brandon
A tragic two-vehicle collision in Allen County early Saturday morning has claimed the life of a beloved Franklin resident, 72-year-old Carolyn Brandon. Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 3 has launched a full investigation into the fatal accident, which occurred in the early hours of June 28, 2025, on U.S. Highway 31E, just south of Scottsville.
The Incident
According to preliminary findings released by KSP, troopers responded to a report of a serious crash around 5:30 a.m. Upon arriving at the scene, officers discovered two heavily damaged vehicles — a 2014 Chevrolet Equinox and a 2017 Dodge Ram pickup truck — blocking both lanes of the rural highway.
Carolyn Brandon, the driver of the Equinox, was found unresponsive at the scene. Emergency medical personnel attempted life-saving measures, but she was tragically pronounced dead at the scene due to injuries sustained in the crash. Ms. Brandon was reportedly traveling northbound when, for reasons still under investigation, her vehicle crossed the center line and collided head-on with the southbound pickup truck.
The driver of the Dodge Ram, identified as a 39-year-old man from Scottsville, sustained moderate injuries and was transported by ambulance to The Medical Center at Bowling Green. Authorities have not released his name at this time, but confirmed he is expected to recover.
Ongoing Investigation
KSP Post 3’s Critical Incident Response Team, along with accident reconstruction specialists, were dispatched to the crash site to analyze the scene. Investigators closed the roadway for several hours as they gathered physical evidence, took measurements, and interviewed witnesses.
As of now, no charges have been filed, and toxicology reports are pending. Investigators are working to determine if weather conditions, driver impairment, vehicle malfunction, or medical issues may have played a role in the crash. Authorities have asked any witnesses or individuals with dash cam footage who were in the area at the time to come forward to aid in the investigation.
Trooper Daniel Priddy, public affairs officer for KSP Post 3, released a statement saying,
“Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of Ms. Carolyn Brandon. This is a deeply tragic incident, and our team is doing everything possible to ensure that the circumstances surrounding the crash are fully understood.”
Remembering Carolyn Brandon
Carolyn Brandon was a longtime resident of Franklin, Kentucky, and a cherished member of the community. Friends and family describe her as kind-hearted, graceful, and deeply devoted to her family and church. She was a retired elementary school teacher who spent more than three decades shaping young minds in Simpson County and was often remembered by former students for her warmth and compassion.
“Carolyn wasn’t just a teacher — she was a mentor, a mother figure, and a pillar of our neighborhood,” said longtime friend and fellow church member Judy Mason. “She gave so much of herself to others, and her passing leaves a painful gap in all of our lives.”
She is survived by her two daughters, five grandchildren, and many extended relatives and friends who are now grieving her loss. Funeral arrangements are currently being made and are expected to be announced by Booker-Gilbert Funeral Home in the coming days.
Community Response
The close-knit communities of Franklin and Allen County are mourning the loss and reflecting on the dangerous realities of rural roadways. While traffic is typically lighter in these areas, narrow roads, high speeds, and lack of lighting often increase the risk of serious collisions.
Local officials and community leaders have expressed their condolences and emphasized the importance of continued public education on roadway safety and alert driving, particularly during early morning or low-light hours.
State Senator David Givens, who represents portions of south-central Kentucky, issued a statement saying:
“Ms. Brandon’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can be taken on our roads. We must continue to invest in safer road infrastructure and driver awareness to prevent future tragedies.”
Moving Forward
As the investigation continues, the Kentucky State Police are urging all drivers to remain vigilant, adhere to posted speed limits, and avoid distractions behind the wheel. The agency has also reiterated the importance of seatbelt use, proper vehicle maintenance, and exercising caution, especially on two-lane highways.
The KSP will release further information once the investigation is complete and final reports are reviewed. Meanwhile, the community of Franklin is left to mourn the loss of a treasured resident whose legacy of kindness and service will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Carolyn Brandon’s passing is more than a statistic — it is a solemn reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact one individual can have on a community.