Wayne County High School Basketball Player Cayleb Preston Rice’s Death Leaves Wayne County Grieving the Loss of a Promising Young Life
Emma Terry
Published May 15, 2026
Wayne County High School Basketball Player Cayleb Preston Rice’s Death Leaves Wayne County Grieving the Loss of a Promising Young Life
The 16-year-old athlete and student was killed in a tragic car accident just weeks before his 17th birthday.
July 28, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on July 28, 2026
Cayleb Preston Rice’s death in a car accident sparks an outpouring of support and sorrow.
Wayne County is grieving the untimely death of 16-year-old Cayleb Preston Rice, who lost his life on Friday, July 25, 2026, in a single-vehicle crash just weeks before his 17th birthday.
The accident shortly before 4:30 p.m. on KY 1275, according to Wayne County Sheriff Tim Catron.
Sheriff Catron confirmed that Cayleb was driving when his vehicle left the roadway, struck a tree stump, and overturned multiple times.
He was ejected from the car during the crash and was the sole occupant. Emergency responders transported him to the hospital, where he was later pronounced dead.
The Monticello Police Department addressed the tragic loss in a public statement, calling Cayleb “full of promise, kindness, and potential” and noting that
“there are no words that can truly capture the depth of sorrow felt by family, friends, classmates, teachers, and all who knew and loved him.”
Cayleb was set to begin his sophomore year at Wayne County High School this fall.
An avid athlete, he loved playing basketball and football and often found joy on the court or field.
When not with his teammates, he cherished time with his family, especially his younger brothers, Aidan and Christian, who looked up to him deeply.
He also enjoyed working on the family farm alongside his uncles, grandfather, and cousins.
Born on August 18, 2008, to Allison Dishman and Matt Rice, Cayleb grew up surrounded by a large and loving extended family.
He is by his parents—Allison (Brian) Dishman and Matt (Presley) Rice—his brothers Aidan and Christian, maternal grandparents Danny and Mary Guffey, paternal grandparents Myson and Donna Rice, and many other family members and friends whose lives he touched.
Cayleb’s spiritual life was a guiding force. He gave his life to Christ on August 20, 2017, and rededicated it on September 15, 2026, alongside his brother Aidan.
His faith journey inspired others, including his youngest brother, Christian, whom he helped lead to Christ.
Known for his joyful spirit and unwavering kindness, Cayleb carried God’s love with him in every interaction.
In response to the devastating loss, the Wayne County School District released a statement expressing deep condolences:
“Our hearts go out to Cayleb’s family, friends, teammates, and classmates during this incredibly difficult time.”
The district has made counseling and support services available to students and staff and has asked for continued respect of the family’s privacy.
To honor Cayleb’s memory and legacy, the family has requested donations to the Cayleb Rice Memorial Scholarship Fund in lieu of flowers.
Visitation will be held at Monticello First Baptist Church on Tuesday, July 29, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and again on Wednesday, July 30, from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM.
The funeral service will begin at 1:00 PM on Wednesday at the same location, followed by burial at Elk Spring Cemetery. Hicks-Vaughn Funeral Home is overseeing arrangements.
As the Wayne County community comes to terms with this tragic loss, Cayleb Preston Rice is remembered not just for his athletic talents and warm heart but for the light he brought into the lives of everyone he met. His legacy of faith, love, and leadership will continue to inspire.
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