Kentucky state Senator Johnnie Turner has sustained serious injuries after his lawn mower fell into an empty swimming pool at his residence, according to reports from local authorities.
The Kentucky State Police revealed that the 76-year-old senator was operating the mower when it unexpectedly plunged into the deep end of the pool. Emergency services were alerted via a 911 call just before 8 p.m. on Sunday.
Currently, Turner is in critical but stable condition at the University of Tennessee Medical Center in Knoxville. He serves multiple counties in eastern Kentucky, and his family is requesting prayers for his “speedy recovery,” as confirmed by Senate President Robert Stivers.
Bruce Schreiner/AP
Turner was first taken to a local hospital before being moved to Knoxville for specialized treatment, with specific details regarding his injuries remaining undisclosed.
A lawyer and former U.S. Army medic, Turner has held the seat for District 29 since 2020. He is a vocal supporter of Kentucky’s coal industry, which has been on the decline due to various economic and environmental factors.
He first earned his Senate seat by defeating a Democratic incumbent and has recently navigated a successful primary. He is gearing up for a reelection campaign against an independent candidate in November.
Turner, born on December 24, 1947, in Bledsoe, Kentucky, is a graduate of Union College and the University of Kentucky College of Law. His professional background includes legal work for Harlan County Public Schools and the city of Cumberland, alongside his private practice.
Elected in November 2020, Turner has been actively involved in several Senate committees, such as Banking and Insurance, Judiciary, Natural Resources and Energy, and Transportation.
As Kentucky’s GOP-led Legislature prepares for its 2025 session, lawmakers are currently engaging in interim committees to address key issues ahead of the upcoming 30-day session.
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.