CORBIN, Ky. (April 6, 2026) – The Kentucky State Police Post 11 in London is investigating a fatal collision that occurred on Monday, April 6, 2026, at approximately 3:00 p.m. EDT on the Cumberland Falls Highway near the intersection of Ward Cemetery Rd.
The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2017 Ram pickup truck, operated by John P. Canada-Love, 38, of Corbin, Ky., was traveling north on Cumberland Falls Highway. Mr. Canada-Love approached a 2017 silver Honda HR-V, operated by Jennifer Kirk, 42, of Berea, Ky., and occupied by another passenger, who was also traveling north on Cumberland Falls Highway and attempting to negotiate a turn. Mr. Canada-Love attempted to maneuver around the silver Honda, but struck the rear of the vehicle, causing his vehicle to overturn and strike a 2025 Mercedes-Benz traveling southbound, operated by Phillip VanWinkle, 46 of Berea, Ky., and occupied by 3 passengers.
All occupants of the Honda HR-V and Mercedes-Benz were wearing their seatbelts at the time of the collision, and one passenger of the Mercedes-Benz was transported with injuries to Baptist Health in Corbin, where they were later released. Mr. Canada-Love was not wearing his seatbelt and sustained fatal injuries as a result of the collision. He was pronounced deceased by Whitley County Coroner Andy Crowly at 3:50 p.m. EDT.
At this time, drugs and alcohol are not suspected to be a contributing factor; however, toxicology results are pending.
Detective Shane Bowling is leading the investigation and conducting a collision reconstruction. He was assisted on scene by KSP personnel, Oak Grove Fire Department, Whitley County Sheriff’s Office, Whitley County EMS, and the Whitley County Coroner’s Office.
# # #