Kentucky State Senator Dies a Month After Lawn Mower Accident

Kentucky State Senator Johnnie Turner has passed away weeks after an unexpected accident involving a lawn mower and an empty pool.

At a Glance

Sen. Johnnie Turner died at 76 from injuries sustained in a lawn mower accident.
The accident occurred when Turner’s mower fell into an empty pool in Harlan, Kentucky.
Turner was known for his support of the coal industry and regional initiatives.
A decorated U.S. Army veteran, Turner also served in the state legislature since 1999.

The Accident

Kentucky State Senator Johnnie Turner died over a month after a lawn mower accident at his home. On September 15, Turner accidentally drove his riding mower into the deep end of an empty swimming pool at his residence in Harlan, Kentucky. Despite the hopes and prayers for his recovery, Turner passed away from the injuries sustained in the incident. He was 76 years old.

Turner’s death sent shockwaves through the community. Tributes have poured in from political figures highlighting his commitment to public service and unwavering advocacy for the region he loved.

Kentucky state Sen. Johnnie Turner dies after plunging into empty swimming pool on lawn mower https://t.co/OtWQYEEjv4

— CBS Evening News (@CBSEveningNews) October 24, 2024

Turner’s Career and Legacy

Johnnie Turner was a staple in Kentucky politics, dedicated to advocating for coal industry interests and other important causes for his Appalachian district. He began his political career in the Kentucky House of Representatives from 1999 to 2002 before being elected to the State Senate in 2020. Besides his legislative service, Turner was a veteran, having served as a medic in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1969.

“Johnnie spent his life lifting others — whether through his service in the U.S. Army, as a member of the State House of Representatives and State Senate, or in his private legal practice. His unwavering commitment to the people of eastern Kentucky — his constituents, brothers and sisters in Christ, whom he so fondly referred to as ‘his people’ — was at the heart of everything he did,” Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers said.

Senator Turner’s contributions to his community included efforts to support victims of flooding in eastern Kentucky. He was actively involved in initiatives that were beneficial to the state, such as a bill supporting horse racing, demonstrating his commitment beyond his district’s borders while maintaining his dedication to issues at home.

“Johnnie was on the scene, ankle-deep in mud, his equipment from home in tow, ready to help folks in Letcher County. That’s just who he was: a good man who loved the mountains and its people,” U.S. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell said when speaking of the floods.

Next Steps and Tributes

Turner’s name will remain on the general election ballot, and a special election may be required to fill his seat. With an Independent challenger withdrawing and the deadline for write-in candidates fast approaching, the political future of this seat remains in question.

Turner’s impact will be felt for years to come as Kentucky prepares for the legislature’s next session, starting in January 2025. He is survived by his wife, three children, and grandchildren, leaving behind a legacy of service and dedication to Kentucky.