Annville, Kentucky – The small town of Annville is grappling with deep sorrow after the tragic death of Tracy Clemmons, a beloved mother and community member. The horrific incident occurred on Saturday morning when Clemmons, 37, was killed in a carjacking outside the T-Mart gas station.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, the tragedy unfolded around 9:45 a.m. when Michael Edwards, the suspect, approached the gas station with several others. Clemmons had stepped inside to pick up breakfast for her children, but upon noticing Edwards attempting to steal her truck, she rushed outside to intervene. In a desperate attempt to stop the theft, Clemmons grabbed the truck’s handle, only to be dragged 40 feet before being run over by her own vehicle.
Laurel County Coroner Doug Bowling confirmed that Clemmons was pronounced dead at St. Joseph London Hospital at 11:45 a.m., succumbing to blunt-force trauma to the head. The news has left the Annville community in shock, as violent crimes are rare in the area.
Michelle House, a T-Mart employee and close friend of Clemmons, expressed the collective grief felt by the town. “Nothing like this happens in this community,” House shared emotionally. “She was just getting breakfast for her children and going home, and it just happened so fast.” House also lamented the impact of Clemmons’ death on her family, stating, “There are children without a mother today and a husband without a wife today. Tracy was truly loved and will be dearly missed.”
The outpouring of grief extended to social media, where friends and community members shared their sorrow. Jim Lucas commented, "This is why you carry! Some people just need shot." Roger Snyder offered prayers, saying, "Prayers for her family and friends."
Following the carjacking, a large-scale search was initiated to locate Edwards, who fled the scene in Clemmons’ truck. The search, involving multiple law enforcement agencies, concluded when Edwards was found hiding in a field on Cornett Chapel Road and taken into custody.
Edwards now faces multiple serious charges, including murder, carjacking, and possession of a handgun as a convicted felon. He is being held at the Jackson County Detention Center on a $1 million bond.
As the investigation continues, the Annville community remains united in their grief, offering support to Clemmons’ family during this heartbreaking time. The memory of Tracy Clemmons will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved her, reminding everyone of the importance of community and togetherness in the face of tragedy.