How quickly it unfolded left even the first responders stunned. Within minutes, 911 dispatchers in Clay County were fielding back-to-back calls—first from drivers alarmed by a man walking in the middle of the roadway, and then from others reporting that he had been struck by passing vehicles.
By the time police and paramedics arrived on the scene, chaos had replaced confusion. The man, later identified as 35-year-old Shannon S. Bryant of Manchester, lay critically injured on the pavement as emergency crews rushed to stabilize him.According to investigators, Bryant was first hit by an
SUV traveling through the area, then struck a second time by a sedan only moments later. Both drivers immediately stopped and cooperated fully with law enforcement, remaining on scene while officers began their investigation. Authorities said there was no indication that speed or impairment played a role, though a full accident reconstruction is underway to determine exactly how the tragedy occurred.
Emergency responders moved quickly, transporting Bryant to AdventHealth Manchester in an effort to save his life. Despite their efforts, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. The Clay County Coroner’s Office confirmed his death and took responsibility for notifying his next of kin, a task that underscored the heartbreak of another life lost too soon.
As news spread, the Manchester community reacted with shock and sadness, expressing sympathy for both Bryant’s family and the motorists involved in the tragic incident. Police have urged the public to remain cautious when traveling at night and to report any pedestrians in the roadway immediately to prevent similar tragedies. For now, friends and family are left to mourn Shannon Bryant—a 35-year-old whose life ended in a matter of moments on a dark Kentucky road.
