In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 4,539 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of these cases, 185 were newly confirmed. It is believed that 1,668 people have recovered from the virus, however there were ten new deaths reported on wednesday, bringing the state’s total to two hundred and thirty five. Governor Beshear elaborated last night on the first phase of business reopening in Kentucky, taking place on May 11th, which will reopen manufacturing, construction, vehicle and vessel dealerships, professional services at 50% of pre outbreak capacity, horse racing without spectators, and pet grooming and boarding. The Governor says this businesses were chosen because of working partnerships to make them safe, and because they will see the least in person contact. The second phase, which will take place on May 20th, will see retail and houses of worship at a reduced capacity open back up. These are tentative dates, and subject to change should a second spike present itself. Governor Beshear noted that this cannot be business as usual, and these industries are required to follow the ten rules to reopening, along with industry specific requirements.
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The Hardin County Sheriff’s Office responded to an incident involving a car and a train in Rineyville last night. According to officials, the victims were two males whose ages are unknown at this time. Both were flown to U of L hospital, and their conditions are also unknown at this time. This is an ongoing investigation, and more information will be provided as it becomes available.
Yesterday morning, the Elizabethtown Police Department responded to Freeman Lake in reference to a kayaker in distress. When they arrived, they observed an adult male in the water holding on to a kayak but unable to move. Officers jumped into the water and swam the victim to shore. Despite air temperatures being relatively warm, the water temperature was still cool and left the victim in a hypothermic state. The victim was transported to Hardin Memorial Health by Hardin County EMS and is expected to make a full recovery.
An Elizabethtown man was arrested Tuesday after leading police on a brief pursuit. Officials were called to Panda Express on Ring Road around 4 PM in reference to a suspected impaired driver. Upon contact with police, the driver, Keith Ware, fled the area. Officers gave chase, and a police cruiser was struck in the chase. The suspect crashed into a fire hydrant at Towne Mall and fled on foot. After a brief struggle, Ware was apprehended in the parking lot of Towne Mall. Ware was arrested and faces several charges, including fleeing or evading police, wanton endangerment, and reckless driving. He was lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.
Like most schools in the region, West Point Independent Schools made the decision to cut school short this year. At a board meeting Tuesday night, the school calendar was amended to make May 15th the final day for NTI instruction for students. Staff will still have to meet the days on their contract. While this is the final year of West Point Independent Schools, Breeding did say that end-of-year activities are still possible, but at a later date. The school announced that they would be merging with Hardin County Schools earlier this year. The city of West Point has been home to school since 1804.