On Tuesday July 19, 2022 just after 1:00 p.m., Kentucky State Police Post 3 Bowling Green was requested by the Butler County Sheriff’s Office to investigate a fatal collision in Butler County. Troopers responded to the scene of the collision located at 20 mile marker of I-165 northbound in the Sugar Grove community.
Preliminary investigation indicates that Angel Bidabur Perez, 38, of Louisville, was operating a 2007 International tractor-trailer northbound on I-165. Perez’s vehicle struck a 2002 GMC dump/paint truck that was stationary in the construction area near the 20 mile marker. The tractor-trailer came to final rest on the right shoulder of the roadway where a fire ignited and engulfed the vehicle. The operator of the GMC dump/paint truck was identified as James Gilbert, 43, of Bowling Green. Angel Bidabur Perez and James Gilbert were both pronounced deceased on the scene by the Butler County Coroner’s Office.
The investigation is being led by Trooper Michael Wathen. He was assisted at the scene by Butler County EMS, Butler County Sheriff’s Office, Butler County Coroner’s Office, and KSP personnel.
