STEARNS, Ky. (July 23, 2025) — A devastating single-vehicle accident in McCreary County has claimed the lives of two Parkers Lake residents. According to the Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London, the collision occurred on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at approximately 12:51 p.m., along U.S. Highway 27 in the Stearns community. The victims have been identified as Pearl Goodin, age 68, and James Goodin, age 73. The couple was traveling in a 2008 gray Toyota 4Runner when the vehicle left the roadway and overturned in a violent crash.
Crash Timeline and Investigation
Preliminary findings from Trooper Shane Bowling, who is leading the investigation, indicate that the 4Runner was headed southbound on US 27 when it veered off the road onto the right-hand (southbound) shoulder and struck a guardrail.
In a likely attempt to regain control, the driver—identified as Pearl Goodin—overcorrected, causing the vehicle to roll over multiple times. Neither Pearl nor her passenger, James Goodin, was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Both occupants were ejected from the vehicle during the rollover.
Immediate Response and Fatal Outcome
First responders arrived quickly on the scene. Despite their efforts, Pearl Goodin was pronounced dead at the scene by the McCreary County Coroner’s Office. James Goodin, though alive at the time of rescue, was rushed to Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital by McCreary County EMS. Tragically, he was later pronounced deceased by the attending emergency room physician.
Toxicology and Cause
While drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be factors in the crash, standard toxicology tests are pending for both occupants. The Kentucky State Police emphasize that seatbelt non-use played a critical role in the severity of the injuries sustained.
Agencies Involved
This tragic incident prompted a multi-agency response, including:
- Kentucky State Police Post 11 – London
- McCreary County EMS
- McCreary County Coroner’s Office
- McCreary County Sheriff’s Office
- North McCreary County Fire Department
Trooper Shane Bowling continues to investigate the cause of the crash. Authorities are working to reconstruct the accident in detail to understand what exactly led to the vehicle leaving the roadway and the subsequent rollover.
Remembering Pearl and James Goodin
Pearl and James Goodin, longtime residents of Parkers Lake, are being remembered by neighbors and community members as a kind and close-knit couple. Though no official obituary has been released, early tributes reflect a shared grief in the McCreary County community. Their sudden and tragic deaths have sent shockwaves throughout the region, as residents reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of roadway safety.
A Sobering Reminder on Road Safety
This incident highlights critical safety lessons for drivers and passengers alike:
- Always wear your seatbelt — regardless of how short the trip may seem.
- Remain alert and cautious, particularly when navigating rural roads with varying terrain and limited shoulder space.
- Avoid overcorrecting when steering errors occur — a natural instinct that can lead to rollovers at high speeds.
What’s Next
As the investigation continues, Kentucky State Police will release any new findings related to mechanical factors, road conditions, or health-related issues that could have contributed to the loss of control. Next of kin have been notified, and no further details have been released regarding memorial services at this time.
Summary of Key Facts
- Date & Time: July 22, 2025, at 12:51 PM
- Location: US Highway 27, Stearns, McCreary County, KY
- Vehicle: 2008 Toyota 4Runner
- Victims: Pearl Goodin (68, driver) – deceased at scene; James Goodin (73, passenger) – deceased at hospital
- Cause: Vehicle exited roadway, hit guardrail, overcorrected, overturned
- Seatbelts: Neither occupant was wearing one
- Investigating Agency: Kentucky State Police Post 11 – London
As the McCreary County community grieves, this tragic accident underscores how quickly a routine drive can turn into a devastating loss. The thoughts and prayers of all involved agencies are with the family and friends of Pearl and James Goodin during this difficult time.
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