Wednesday, April 22, 2026, has become a day of profound mourning for the residents of Breathitt County, Kentucky. A devastating three-vehicle collision on KY-15 in the community of Watts claimed the lives of two beloved members of the Lost Creek community: 36-year-old Brandon Combs and 30-year-old Deanna Noble.
The loss of these two young lives has sent a wave of shock and sorrow through the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, leaving families shattered and a tight-knit community leaning on one another for strength.
The Details of the Tragedy
According to the Kentucky State Police (KSP) Post 13 and the Breathitt County Coroner’s Office, the accident occurred during the busy hours of Wednesday afternoon.
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The Collision: Preliminary reports indicate that three vehicles were involved in a high-impact crash on a stretch of KY-15 near the Watts community. The force of the collision resulted in severe damage to all vehicles involved.
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The Response: Emergency personnel from the Jackson-Breathitt County Fire Department and Breathitt EMS rushed to the scene. Due to the severity of the wreckage, life-saving measures were hampered by the technical nature of the extrication required.
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The Outcome: Tragically, both Brandon Combs and Deanna Noble sustained fatal injuries and were pronounced deceased at the scene. Other occupants involved in the third vehicle were transported to regional medical centers with varying degrees of injury.
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The Investigation: KSP accident reconstructionists are currently working to determine the cause of the crash. Factors such as lane usage and roadway conditions at the time are being closely examined.
Remembering Brandon and Deanna
Brandon and Deanna were more than just residents of Lost Creek; they were the heart of their families and familiar faces in a community where everyone knows their neighbor.
Brandon Combs (1989–2026)
At 36, Brandon was known for his rugged work ethic and his deep love for the Kentucky hills.
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A Devoted Family Man: Brandon’s life was centered around his loved ones. He was a man who worked hard to provide and was happiest when surrounded by his family.
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A Helpful Neighbor: Those in Lost Creek remember Brandon as the man who was always willing to lend a hand, whether it was mechanical help or just a friendly conversation by the road.
Deanna Noble (1995–2026)
At 30, Deanna was a young woman remembered for her kindness and her nurturing spirit.
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A Compassionate Soul: Deanna had a way of making those around her feel cared for. Friends describe her as a “bright light” with a gentle heart and an infectious smile.
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Deep Community Ties: Having grown up in the area, Deanna’s roots in Breathitt County ran deep. Her loss is felt by generations of neighbors who watched her grow into a dedicated and loving woman.
Community Solidarity in Breathitt County
As the families of Brandon and Deanna face this unimaginable journey of grief, the “Breathitt Strong” spirit is on full display.
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Prayer and Vigils: Local churches in Jackson and Lost Creek held prayer circles Wednesday evening, offering a space for the community to process the magnitude of this double loss.
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Support for the Families: Local outreach groups have begun organizing efforts to assist both families with funeral expenses and daily needs during this crisis.
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Final Arrangements: Services for both Brandon and Deanna are being handled by local funeral homes in Jackson, with dates to be announced as the families navigate these early days of mourning.
A Somber Reflection
The stretch of KY-15 in Watts is now a site of quiet reflection for a community that has lost too much too soon. While the investigation continues, the focus of Breathitt County remains on honoring the memories of Brandon Combs and Deanna Noble—two lives that defined the resilience and warmth of Lost Creek.
Rest in Peace, Brandon and Deanna. You were loved by many, and the mountains of Eastern Kentucky will carry your names forever.
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