Kentucky teenager killed in I-75 incident displayed ‘selflessness,’ was caring friend
The 18-year-old construction worker and recent high school graduate killed in an accident on I-75 Wednesday evening was described as a selfless young man who would sacrifice for others.
Braxton Willoughby, of Mt. Sterling, was struck by a tire that came off a passing vehicle in a construction zone on I-75 near the Clays Ferry Bridge, according to the Fayette County Coroner’s Office. He was taken to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead after suffering “traumatic injuries” to his torso, the coroner’s office said.
Willoughby recently graduated from Montgomery County High School, where he played football. One of his former coaches, Dillon Akers, said Willoughby played long snapper. It is a position that can easily be forgotten, but it was a role Willoughby relished.
“His nickname on the team was, ‘One Job.’ That was his one job,” Akers said. “That was kind of the mantra of our team – you have one job to do, one job every play. You do your job and that kind of mantra started with Braxton.”
Akers also said Willoughby would do anything for his friends and teammates.
“Braxton was a very selfless young man who put his friends and his team first before him,” Akers said.
Montgomery County Schools Superintendent Matthew Thompson also said Willoughby was selfless.
“He displayed a selflessness in caring for others and was a wonderful friend, colleague, and teammate to all who knew him,” Thompson said in a statement sent to the Herald-Leader. “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.”
Friends of Willoughby shared condolences on social media after his death. Kristen Riley, one of Willoughby’s teachers, said Willoughby was a great student and friend.
“I’ve watched you grow up over the past 3 years,” Riley wrote in a Facebook post. “You were a great student and friend to your classmates. I’m honored to have been your teacher.”
Willoughby was working in the construction zone when the incident occurred, according to Lexington police. The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet previously said asphalt pavement and road rehabilitation projects were underway in the section of I-75 where Wednesday’s incident occurred, but state officials said the couldn’t comment further Thursday due to an ongoing police investigation.
The Lexington Police Department’s collision reconstruction unit was investigating the incident.
