Trial Commences for Man Accused of Fatal DUI Crash
London Police Officer Loses Life in Accident, Alleged Drunk Driver Under Trial
Bowling Green, KY – It’s been a hefty day in the courthouse as the trial for the man accused of killing a London Police Officer in a DUI crash finally kicks off. The case, which was initially filed over in Laurel County, has found its way to Warren County at the defense’s request.
Casey P. Byrd, a 38-year-old from Oneida, Tennessee, is accused of driving under the influence and causing the fatal accident. The fateful incident happened in the early hours of October 30, 2022, and resulted in the death of London Police Officer Logan K. Medlock.
According to local law enforcement, Byrd had been drinking at a party and then decided to hit the road in his 2022 Dodge Ram truck. Tragically, he crashed into Officer Medlock’s 2019 Dodge Charger at an intersection. Medlock, who was only 26 years old and a resident of Keavy, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Byrd is standing trial for murder and DUI under aggravated circumstances.
Testimonies presented on the first day of the trial revealed that Byrd had been drinking bourbon heavily before the crash. Witnesses reported seeing him polish off at least three or four bottles. The individual who threw the party, reports say, was under the impression that Byrd would stay over for the night. He only found out about Byrd’s departure on the morning after the crash.
Officer Medlock had a history of dedicated service with the London Police Department since August 2019. Prior to that, he served at the Laurel County Corrections for about a year and a half. He was the son of London PD’s Assistant Chief, Randy Medlock.
In a press briefing, London Police Chief Travis Dotson expressed deep sorrow over the cruel twist of fate. “Logan was an outstanding police officer. We are heartbroken,” he was quoted as saying, adding it’s not just a terrible shock for the department but a massive loss for the community at large.
The investigation of this heartbreaking crash was led by the Kentucky State Police Critical Incident Response Team.
Facing Justice
As this trial moves forward, it serves as a grim reminder of the risks drunk driving poses not only to the driver themselves but to innocent people who cross their path. While nothing can bring back Officer Medlock, this trial could provide a sorely needed sense of justice to his grieving family, the London Police Department, and the entire community.
