Retired assistant fire chief among 3 storm-related deaths in KY’s Johnson County

Three people in Johnson County, including a retired assistant fire chief who died trying to navigate his driveway, and two other men who had heart attacks, were among 11 fatalities in Kentucky due to Winter Storm Fern.

The three men died in separate incidents determined by state officials to be storm related deaths, Johnson County Judge Executive Mark McKenzie said.

Johnson County Deputy Coroner Harry Frisby confirmed more details to the Herald-Leader Wednesday night regarding the deaths, and identified the victims.

Harold Prince, 71, died of a heart attack after leaving his home in Stambaugh, Frisby said. Prince was walking to the apartment home of a friend to check on them, Frisby said.

Ray Reeder, 71, a retired assistant Paintsville fire chief, died in an ATV accident while trying to navigate a steep driveway at his home in Van Lear, Frisby said. The ATV overturned and he was pinned.

William Fairchild, 64, had a heart attack at his home at Staffordsville. Because of the weather, emergency medical personnel were delayed in reaching him, and he did not survive, Frisby said.

Gov. Andy Beshear confirmed 11 deaths earlier Wednesday. Those victims were from several different counties, and the ages ranged from 48 to 79.

Multiple victims showed signs of hypothermia as a factor in their death, according to state and local officials.