KY state senator injured in lawnmower accident is improving but remains in the ICU

Sen. Johnnie Turner, R-Harlan, is improving after being severely injured in a lawnmower accident Sunday, according to a Kentucky Senate Republican spokesperson.

Turner drove the mower into the deep end of an empty swimming pool at his home, according to a Kentucky State Police trooper. He was taken to Harlan ARH Hospital and then transferred to the University of Tennessee Medical Center by helicopter.

Turner remains in the intensive care unit at the University of Tennessee Medical Center.

Senate Majority spokesperson Dustin Isaacs shared in an email that Turner is able to “sit upright and communicate.”

“We remain in communication with the Turner family about the recovery of our dear friend and colleague. We’re pleased to report that Johnnie made much progress on Tuesday when he could sit upright and communicate, and he continues to improve today. While he remains in ICU and in some pain, we are grateful for this positive progression,” Isaacs wrote.

“We ask all Kentuckians to continue to pray for his full recovery and for the comfort of his loved ones as they stand beside him.”

Turner represents District 29, which includes Bell, Floyd, Harlan, Knott and Letcher counties.

Turner, 76, is an attorney who has served in the state Senate since 2021, according to the Legislative Research Center. He served in the House of Representatives from 1999 to 2002.