On Friday, October 21st, 2022, at approximately 2:21 p.m., Kentucky State Police Post 2 Madisonville was requested by the Muhlenberg County Sheriff’s Office to investigate a possible fatal collision in Muhlenberg County. Troopers responded to the scene of the collision located on P and M Haul Road in Drakesboro, Kentucky.
Preliminary investigation indicates that Austin L. Landrum, 19, of Rockport, was operating a 2000 Ford Explorer eastbound on P and M Haul Road. During this time, Landrum’s vehicle lost control and exited the westbound shoulder, and descended upon an earth embankment while overturning. A passenger in the vehicle, identified as Mr. Levi W. Ruggles, 18, of Bremen, was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Muhlenberg County Coroner. Due to the collision, a fire originated from the vehicle which would create substantial property damage to the immediate and surrounding areas near the TVA Paradise Fossil Plant.
The investigation and reconstruction are being led by Trooper Trevor High. He was assisted at the scene by Post 2 Madisonville Troopers, the Muhlenberg County Sheriff’s Office, Muhlenberg County Coroner, Muhlenberg County Emergency Management, Beechmont, Bremen, Central City, Drakesboro, Dunmor, Graham, Greenville, Nelson Creek, Rochester, Sacramento, Wendell H. Ford fire departments, and Muhlenberg County Emergency Services (EMS).
