Western Kentucky University is mourning the loss of its men’s golf coach.
Phillip Hatchett was killed early Sunday morning after being struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle with other cyclists on U.S. 68 in Logan County.
Hatchett was 55 years old.
Investigators in the Logan County Sheriff's Office have reported that 27-year-old Robert Stokes of Elkton, in Todd County, was driving west about 7:30 a.m. Sunday when he came upon the bicyclists in the emergency lane, also headed westbound.
Stokes told investigators that before he could check his mirrors to get into the left lane, his Jeep Cherokee struck the rear bicycle, ridden by Hatchett. Police said Hatchett’s bicycle was traveling on the white line, based on visible tire marks.
Three other bicyclists were injured in the accident – 62-year-old Morris Lynn Kisselbaugh, 28-year-old Phillip Christmas and 26-year-old Patrick Christmas, all of Russellville.
The Logan County Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is continuing.
Hatchett was a 1985 WKU graduate and led the university’s golf program for eight seasons. WKU Athletic Director Todd Stewart said Hatchett was an “outstanding person” and “kind soul”who treated his players like family.
Funeral arrangement are pending.
