Two Dead In Three-Vehicle Accident In NKY

The crash took place Friday afternoon at I-75 and Mary Grubbs Highway in Walton.

Shutterstock photo.

(Walton, Ky.) – Two people were killed in a three-vehicle accident in northern Kentucky.

Boone County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the crash on Friday around 5:00 p.m. at the Interstate 75 southbound exit ramp to Mary Grubbs Highway in Walton.

According to witnesses, a white 2019 Jeep Wrangler, driven by Gregory Burke, 57, of Union, was exiting I-75 when he collided with the rear end of a brown 2007 Honda Civic that was stopped in traffic.

The collision pushed the Honda Civic into the rear of a 2020 Chevrolet 2500 pickup truck that was also stopped in traffic.

Two passengers in the Honda Civic suffered fatal injuries. Autumn Ward, 15, of Newport, and Jeff Mardis, 52, of Walton, were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Civic, Wendy Ward, 37, of Newport, sustained life-threatening injuries.

Burke was treated at St. Elizabeth Florence for minor injuries.

Deputies do not believe intoxication is a contributing factor.

The crash remains under investigation.

More from Local News

Events

Dearborn County Council President Receives Prestigious Award

The award was presented at the annual AIC Conference this week.

Autumn Antiquing: Final Market of 2026

The 2026 Tri-State Antique Market season is coming to an end

Lawrenceburg Fall Music Fest Veteran's Recognition to Feature Two Heroes

The ceremony happens Saturday, September 26 around 6 PM.

Conner Girls Golf Finishes Runner-up at Region 7 Tournament, Qualify for State Tournament

The Region 5-8 Sectional Tournament is scheduled for next week at Kenton Co. Golf Course

Local Sports Report - September 23, 2026

Report missing stats and scores to news@eaglecountryonline.com

Seven Earn ORVC Weekly Honors

One performance was record-breaking between September 14-19

On Air

Chelsie playing
Carrie Underwood - Out Of That Truck

George Strait I Cross My Heart 9:23
Kenny Chesney American Kids - EAGLE ONLY NO INTRO 9:20
Alabama 40 Hour Week 9:17
Lee Brice Soul 9:10