The initial investigation indicates that Matthew Thacker, 17 years old of Pikeville, Kentucky, was traveling east on Zebulon Highway in the Zebulon community and was struck head-on by an oncoming vehicle. The oncoming vehicle was attempting to avoid a collision with the rear of another vehicle that was attempting to make a left turn into Winns Branch Road. Thacker was flown from the scene to Pikeville Medical Center. On April 18th, Thacker succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at PMC. Evidence at the scene indicates Thacker was wearing his seat belt at the time of the collision and alcohol does not appear to be a factor.
