A Marion County firefighter has died in a crash while responding to a call.
Kentucky State Police said troopers responded to the accident on Friday afternoon at approximately 5:15 on St. Francis Raywick Road (Hwy 527).
State police said the investigation showed that 51-year-old Lt. Brian Hatt, of Raywick, was traveling north in a Raywick Fire Department International tanker truck with the vehicle’s lights and sirens activated as firefighters were en route to assist the Loretto Fire Department battle a blaze.
“While responding, the tanker truck dropped off the right shoulder of the roadway, causing the edge of the roadway to collapse, as Hatt lost control of the vehicle and crossed the roadway. The vehicle then exited on the left side of the roadway, striking an earth embankment, causing it to overturn,” according to state police.
Hatt was ejected from the vehicle while another firefighter, 58-year-old Leonard Winkler, of Raywick, was injured in the crash.
Hatt was airlifted to University of Louisville Hospital while Winkler was airlifted to University of Kentucky Medical Center with serious injuries.
Hatt, a 12-year firefighting veteran as well as a U.S. Army veteran, died of his injuries on Monday.
The Raywick FD posted the following statement on Hatt’s death:
It is with deep sorrow that the Raywick Fire Department announces the passing of Lieutenant Brian Hatt, a dedicated firefighter, colleague, and friend. Lieutenant Hatt passed away on August 25, 2025, at 3:49pm surrounded by his loving family, and his brothers and sisters of Raywick Fire Department.
Lieutenant Hatt faithfully served the Raywick community with courage and compassion, exemplifying the true spirit of public service. Over his 12 years of service, he was known not only for his commitment to protecting lives and property but also for his kindness, leadership, and willingness to mentor others.
“Lieutenant Hatt was more than a firefighter – he was family to all of us at the Raywick Fire Department,” said Herman Riggs, Chief of the Raywick Fire Department. “His legacy of service and sacrifice will live on in the department and in the hearts of the community he so selflessly served.”
The Raywick Fire Department extends heartfelt condolences to Lieutenant Hatt’s family, friends, and fellow first responders during this difficult time.
(Photo: Raywick FD Lt. Brian Hatt, courtesy of the Raywick FD)
By Ken Howlett, News Director
Contact Ken at ken@k105.com
