Teen dies after climbing out of moving car

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Web Editor - Ryan Burkett

Story Created: Wed Oct 17, 2012 5:40 AM

Story Updated: Wed Oct 17, 2012 6:06 PM

BENTON, Ky. - A Benton, Kentucky teenager is dead after attempting to climb through the sunroof of a moving vehicle.

The incident happened around 7 p.m. last night on Wadesboro Road North between Tom Lane Road and Houser Road in Benton.

The Marshall County Sheriff's Office says 19-year-old Zackery Smalley was riding in the backseat of Logan McNeely's car when he attempted to climb out the sunroof.

McNeely and another passenger, Robert Davis, attempted to stop him, but couldn't. According to police, Smalley's leg blocked McNeely's view and so he swerved. When he did, Smalley fell out.

Witnesses and emergency medical personnel tried to revive Smalley, but were unsuccessful.

Smalley and McNeely are seniors at Marshall County High School. Davis graduated last year. Principal Amy Waggoner calls the accident senseless and said it's affecting everyone. Councilors and church leaders were at the school Wednesday.

Students had a banner in the hallway for others to sign. They plan to give it to Smalley's family.

The sheriff's office is investigating the incident and will present what it finds to the Marshall County Grand Jury next month. The sheriff told WPSD he doesn't suspect there will be any charges, but won't know for sure until then.