Bizarre traffic accident claims lives of Kentucky pastor and family

The Tennessee Highway Patrol has identified the four people killed in a deadly crash on Interstate 40 as the the Cruce Family of Benton, Kentucky.

Michael and Monica, along with sons, Joshua and Caleb, were victims of a six-car pileup that also injured four other individuals.

A statement released by Rosebower Baptist Church in Paducah identified Michael as a respected staff member and the family as loving and engaged members:

"The Rosebower Baptist Church family is stunned by the tragic loss of the Cruce family. Michael, Monica, Joshua, and Caleb were more than just our youth minister and family, they were vital links in our bond of love. They had been on our staff for ten years and had mentored, counseled, instructed and ministered to both our youth and the church body as a whole. While we are heartbroken with grief at this time, we cling to the words of Scripture with full faith that we need not grieve as others do who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep."

According to police, two cars were stopped for unknown reasons in the middle lanes of the heavily traveled I-40 and the Cruce's car and three others crashed into this pair of vehicles at 7:45 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 3.

Justin Mason, pastor of Rosebower Baptist Church, described Michael Cruce as a man of conviction and love.

"He's a true man of character, integrity and faith," Mason told the Tennessean. "He loved God and loved people."

"We just covet prayers for all the families and for all of those involved," he said.

Funeral details have not been released.