UPDATE: Boone County Deputy Struck by Passing Vehicle During Traffic Stop

Investigators are seeking the public's help in identifying the suspect.

Photo provided.

Update published Sunday, March 2 at 2:31 PM:

Acting on a tip and with the assistance of the Kentucky State Police, Boone County Sheriff’s Office deputies identified and located the suspect as well as the suspect vehicle in Sparta, Kentucky. 

The suspect is identified as 58-year-old John R. Graue of Sparta, Kentucky. Deputies executed a search warrant at Graue’s residence, seized his company owned utility truck and sought an arrest warrant.

Graue turned himself in at the Boone County Jail and is charged with Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree (Police Officer), Leaving the scene of an accident and Failure to give right of way to an emergency vehicle. He remains lodged at the Boone County Jail and is held on a $50,000 cash bond.

 

Original story published Sunday, March 2 at 12:11 PM:

(Boone County, Ky.) - A Boone County Sheriff's deputy sustained injuries after being struck by the passenger side mirror of a passing truck during a traffic stop on Friday night. 

Deputy Jacob Southworth was conducting a traffic stop around 7:10 p.m. on southbound I-17 at the 72 mile-marker. After completing the stop at 7:17 p.m., Deputy Southworth was struck by a passing truck while walking back to his cruiser. 

He sustained contusions and soft tissue injuries to his arm and was treated and released at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Florence. 

The truck continued southbound on I-71 towards Gallatin County. The suspect vehicle is believed to be a white GMC or Chevrolet commercial utility truck with an unknown logo on the passenger side door. 

Anyone with information that could assist in identifying the suspect is asked to contact the Boone County Sheriff's Office. Tips may be received via email crime@boonecountyky.org or by phone at 859-371-1234.

 

More from Local News

Events

Two Pools of Mosquitos Tested Positive for West Nile Virus in Ohio County

No human cases of West Nile Virus have been detected in Ohio County.

2027 DCF Scholarship Applications Now Available for High School Seniors

Scholarships are available for students at five area high schools.

Garbage Truck Fire Reported at Milan High School

This is the second fire of this type within two months at the same location.

Batesville Girls Golf Captures 7th Straight Sectional Title

Sectional 27 was held at Greensburg Country Club.

High School Baseball Fields Light up Across Indiana to Honor Late Jennings Co. Coach

The show of support to the Sigler family and Jennings County community was strong on Thursday night.

Local Sports Report - September 17, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

On Air

Anne Murray A Little Good News 8:55
Jimmy Wayne I Love You This Much 8:48
Thompson Square If I Didn't Have You 8:45
Tom T. Hall Me and Jesus 8:41