Two Teens Killed in Head On Crash
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Two Teens Killed in Head On Crash
It's the kind of story that will make you want to hold that handshake a little longer as you say goodbye to a friend, or make sure to say "I love you" to your family as you head out the door in the morning.
Reporter: Michael Huff and Tim Irr
Email Address: michael.huff@wsaz.com; tim.irr@wsaz.com
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It was just a normal day at the Dollar General Store in Lawrence County, Kentucky. Then it instantly became a day the emploees here would never forget.

Amanda Levering was working inside. She says she and the others inside first thought a truck tire had exploded when they first heard the crash, but they soon learned otherwise.

It didn't take long for emergency crews to get there, but sometimes no matter how quick the response and how diligent the effort lives are lost. In this case, it was two young lives. Kristi Blevins and Marinda Perry, both only 17 years old, were killed. Kristi's 11 year old sister, Shelby, who was also in the car was seriously injured. The driver of the other car, James Preece, a 41 year old man from Louisa was also injured. Police are still trying to figure out if anyone was wearing a seatbelt.

People who live and work in the area saythis spot of Route 2565 is normally a safe one.

Kentucky State Police say Mr. Preece's car crossed the center line, hitting the girl's car head on. Now they'll try to figure out what led to the crossover.

Route 2565 was closed for about five hours while State Police accident reconstruction specialists examined the scene. The accident happened around 3:45 Wednesday afternoon near the intersection of State Route 32.

According to police reports, James Preece was traveling south on State Route 2565, the car driven by Kristi Blevins was traveling north. Investigators say Preece crossed over into the northbound land and struck Blevins head on. The Lawrence County Coronor pronounced both Kristi Blevins and Marinda Perry dead at the scene. Shelby Blevins and James Preece were both flown to Cabell Huntington Hospital. Their condition is not immediately available.

According to a Kentucky State Police press release, investigators say it is unclear if alcohol or drugs were suspected in the collision. Investigators are also trying to determine if seat belts were in use by any of the victims.

The cause of the collision is still under investigation. The Kentucky State Police is handling the investigation.

Stay tuned to WSAZ NewsChannel 3 and WSAZ.com for the latest on this developing story.


Latest Comments

Posted by: Just a girl on Oct 5, 2009 at 01:05 AM

It's getting so much harder to go on with those girls not being here on earth. Grant it they are with God, but i have been thinking about both of them a whole lot. I miss them everyday. Sometimes I wish I could have got to know them even better. They will forever remain in my heart.
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Posted by: joe on Apr 25, 2009 at 06:39 PM

i miss seeing marinda on the us every morning and evening, she was always smiling.lmost 2 years now and i still miss you, and i didnt know kristi al lthat well, but i miss her too. i love you both.
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Posted by: Forever memories on Apr 20, 2009 at 10:45 AM

It's been almost 2 years now and it continues to feel weird without them here. I moved from LCHS to HHS in Ohio. It's amazing how much this school is relating to them. Our prom is April 25th. I didn't want to go, but i am going. The girls are one of my reasons for going. I know they would want me to and have a good time. However, like always, i will be thinking about them! Love, forever memories
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