Graves County Crash Claims Life of Tennessee Man in Pilot Oak Community Collision
GRAVES COUNTY, Ky. (November 1, 2025) — The Graves County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a devastating two-vehicle collision that occurred Friday evening in the Pilot Oak community, just south of Mayfield, resulting in the passing of 52-year-old Ronald Minor of Puryear, Tennessee.
Deputies say the accident happened around 7:40 p.m. on Kentucky Highway 129, near the intersection with Pilot Oak Road, a rural stretch frequently used by commuters traveling between Graves County and northwest Tennessee. Preliminary reports indicate that Minor was traveling northbound on a 2020 Harley-Davidson motorcycle when a southbound Chevrolet Silverado pickup attempted to make a left turn across his lane.
The motorcycle struck the passenger side of the truck, throwing Minor from his bike. Emergency responders from the Pilot Oak Fire Department, Mayfield-Graves County EMS, and deputies from the sheriff’s office were dispatched to the scene within minutes of multiple 911 calls from nearby residents.
Paramedics provided immediate medical attention, but despite their efforts, Minor was pronounced deceased at the scene by the Graves County Coroner’s Office. The driver of the pickup truck, identified as a 43-year-old Graves County resident, remained at the location and cooperated fully with investigators. Officials have not released the driver’s name pending a full review of the case.
Authorities say speed and alcohol are not believed to be factors at this time, though the crash remains under investigation by Deputy Brad Goggins, the lead investigator with the Graves County Sheriff’s Office. The roadway was closed for several hours Friday night as investigators reconstructed the scene and cleared debris.
Witnesses described the area as poorly lit, with ongoing maintenance work that may have limited visibility. “That stretch gets really dark at night,” said one nearby resident. “People have asked for better lighting or more warning signs for years.”
Friends and family of Ronald Minor have expressed shock and grief over his passing. Known throughout his Puryear neighborhood as a hardworking and friendly man, Minor was an experienced motorcycle rider who frequently made trips through western Kentucky’s scenic backroads. Those close to him say he was a family-oriented person who enjoyed outdoor activities and volunteering in his community.
“Ronnie was the kind of person who’d stop to help anyone,” said a close family friend. “He had a big heart and a bigger smile. Losing him like this just doesn’t feel real.”
A memorial service is expected to be held later this week in Puryear, where friends and loved ones will gather to celebrate Minor’s life and share memories of his generosity and humor.
The Graves County Sheriff’s Office has urged all motorists to use extra caution at rural intersections, especially during low-light hours. “Motorcycles are often difficult to see, particularly in unlit areas,” said Sheriff Jon Hayden. “We remind drivers to double-check before turning or crossing lanes. Every second of attention can save a life.”
The sheriff’s office continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash. Anyone who may have witnessed the collision or has dash camera footage is encouraged to contact the Graves County Sheriff’s Office at (270) 247-4501.
As the Pilot Oak and Puryear communities mourn, residents are joining together in remembrance of a life gone too soon — one marked by kindness, hard work, and a love of the open road.