A Kentucky community is rallying around one of its own after a devastating car crash. Macey Lyons lost both her husband and young daughter in a head-on collision as they returned home from their honeymoon. In a matter of minutes, her entire world was turned on its head. And while she survived, she is also not without injury. In the wake of such an unexpected tragedy, those close to the family have come together to support Macey. They are creating fundraisers and other donation drives to alleviate the stress of burying both her husband and daughter.
On Saturday, July 26, 2025, Macey Lyons was in a car with her husband, Hunter Lyons, and their 1-year-old daughter Oakleigh traveling home, according to news reports. At 5:10 p.m., their truck was hit. The driver of the other vehicle, 48-year-old Joseph Maynard, was driving in the other direction and suddenly crossed their center line. As a result, both cars became engulfed in flames.
It is unknown what caused Maynard to cross the line.
Joseph Maynard died before making it to the hospital. Hunter and Oakleigh Lyons were declared dead at the scene. According to officials, Macey Lyons was injured and flown to the University of Louisville Hospital to be treated for burns. She is expected to survive.
Kentucky State Police say that the crash is still under investigation.
In his obituary, the family of Hunter Lyons said he “enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, riding horses, tractors and his 4 wheeler.” He was devout in his religious beliefs and was a constant fixture at his church.
Oakleigh Lyons was described as a “very loved little girl.” According to the family, the toddler’s “smile was like a ray of sunshine and shone through in her sassy personality.” Much like her father, she loved being outdoors, “feeding apples to the horses and riding in the side by side.” Family also described her as “funny and smart.”
Instead of a typical GoFundMe fundraiser, friends and family are setting up direct fundraising efforts. Friend Laken Summitt has a Venmo set up to receive donations. “I took this upon myself after talking with her family, they told me I have the go ahead to do this and again all donations go directly to Macey and to pay for anything she may need in this time of grief,” she said in a Facebook post.
An online silent auction has also been set up to help.
