Graves County, KY – A tragic early morning crash on July 1, 2025, has claimed the life of 22-year-old Raye A. Jones and left another individual critically injured, sending shockwaves through the Graves County community.
Emergency crews were dispatched just before sunrise to the 2000 block of KY 408 West after receiving reports of a single-vehicle collision. Upon arrival, first responders encountered a harrowing scene: a heavily damaged minivan had veered off the roadway, struck a tree with significant force, and erupted into flames. The intense blaze posed a serious challenge for rescue operations, which were quickly launched in an effort to save the vehicle’s occupants.
Tragically, Raye A. Jones, who was riding as a passenger, was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities stated that she sustained fatal injuries from the impact, and despite the prompt response from emergency personnel, she could not be saved. Friends and loved ones now mourn the sudden loss of a young woman described by many as kind-hearted, vibrant, and full of promise.
The driver of the vehicle, identified as 30-year-old Sherrod Shelton, was found critically injured and in dire need of medical attention. Paramedics with Mayfield Graves County EMS stabilized Shelton on site before transporting him to Lourdes Medical Center. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was later airlifted to a specialized trauma center located outside the state. His current condition remains undisclosed, but officials confirm he is receiving intensive care.
As the investigation into the fatal crash continues, the Graves County Sheriff’s Office has begun piecing together the sequence of events that led to the deadly incident. According to preliminary findings, authorities believe there may have been a disturbance or altercation inside the vehicle moments before the crash occurred. Investigators are considering the possibility of a domestic situation that may have contributed to the loss of control and eventual impact.
While the official cause of the accident has yet to be determined, investigators are working diligently to reconstruct the events of that morning. Both physical evidence from the crash site and witness statements are being analyzed, and authorities are awaiting results from forensic examinations and toxicology tests to provide a clearer picture of what happened.
The news of Raye A. Jones’ death has devastated those who knew her. Tributes have begun to pour in on social media from friends, family, and members of the community, all expressing their grief and sharing memories of a young life taken far too soon. Plans for a memorial service have not yet been announced, but many have expressed a desire to honor her legacy and support her grieving family during this incredibly difficult time.
As the community of Graves County grapples with this heartbreaking event, officials are urging anyone who may have information related to the crash or the moments leading up to it to come forward. The Sheriff’s Office continues to pursue all leads as they seek justice and clarity for the lives so profoundly impacted by this tragedy.
The investigation remains ongoing.