Kentucky State Senator Johnnie Turner, 76, tragically passed away on Tuesday due to injuries he sustained in a bizarre accident involving his lawnmower. The incident occurred when Turner drove his lawnmower into an empty swimming pool, leaving him with severe injuries that he battled for weeks before succumbing.
Turner, a decorated U.S. Army veteran, had been serving in the Kentucky State Senate since 2021, representing his constituents in Eastern Kentucky with dedication and a deep sense of duty. He also previously served in the Kentucky State House of Representatives from 1999 to 2003, establishing a long and respected career in public service.
The accident took place in mid-September when Turner, while riding his lawnmower, somehow steered into the deep end of an empty pool. According to the Associated Press, Kentucky State Police received a 911 call shortly before 8 p.m. on Sunday, September 16, reporting the incident.
Details regarding the cause of the accident remain unclear, but authorities confirmed that Turner was seriously injured when he fell into the pool. Emergency responders quickly transported him to a local hospital before he was transferred to the University of Tennessee Medical Center for specialized treatment.
Despite the efforts of medical teams and Turner’s resilience, the injuries proved too severe, and he passed away nearly a month after the accident. Kentucky Senate President Robert Stivers announced Turner’s death on Thursday, offering a heartfelt tribute to the late senator.
In a statement released on behalf of the Senate Majority Caucus, Stivers expressed the profound sadness felt by Turner’s colleagues and friends: “It is with heavy hearts that we share the news of Sen. Johnnie Turner’s passing Tuesday evening, following a hard-fought battle with injuries sustained in his recent accident. Over the past weeks, his remarkable resolve and strength filled the Turner family—and all of us—with optimism, making this loss all the more difficult to bear.”
Stivers’ remarks underscored the personal nature of the loss, as he reflected on his friendship with Turner that stretched back many years. “This loss is deeply personal to me, as I have known Johnnie long before our paths crossed in public office. I will miss my friend; my heart breaks for his wife, Maritza, and his children. The love and admiration I, along with so many others, feel for Johnnie is immense, but I know it pales compared to the depth of love held by those closest to him.”
Turner’s career in public service was marked by a strong commitment to helping others. After serving in the U.S. Army, Turner entered public office with the same sense of duty and dedication, consistently working on behalf of the people of Eastern Kentucky. He was known for his tireless efforts in both his political career and his private legal practice, and his devotion to his constituents never wavered.
“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,” Stivers continued. “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.”
The senator’s death comes just weeks before he was set to stand for re-election. Turner had recently won the Republican primary and was campaigning for a second term in office. As the election is less than two weeks away, his name will remain on the ballot despite his passing. While his loss leaves a void in Kentucky’s political landscape, the election will continue as scheduled.
Turner’s passing is a significant loss not just to his family and friends but to the entire Kentucky political community. Known for his warm personality, strong convictions, and tireless work ethic, Turner was a respected figure who will be missed by all who knew him.
In the wake of his passing, tributes have poured in from colleagues and constituents alike, remembering the impact Turner had during his time in office. His dedication to service, both in the military and in public office, was a testament to his character and commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
As Kentucky mourns the loss of Senator Johnnie Turner, his legacy of service, strength, and dedication will undoubtedly live on, remembered by those who had the privilege of working alongside him and by the people of Eastern Kentucky, whom he served with honor.
