THE APEX TIMES
Kentucky State Police searching for missing Barbourville man last seen at Baptist Health Corbin
Donnie E. Leath, 48, was reported missing after leaving Baptist Health Corbin at about 6:30 p.m. Thursday, according to Kentucky State Police.
Kentucky State Police are searching for Donnie E. Leath, 48, of Barbourville, after he was reported missing following an exit from Baptist Health Corbin in Knox County, according to a WKYT report published June 20 and updated June 21.
WKYT reported that Leath was last seen leaving the hospital at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Thursday. After he was not located, investigators began looking for him, and the case was referred to Kentucky State Police for search and response.
The report says Kentucky State Police are actively working to locate Leath. While the initial information centers on the time and location of his departure from Baptist Health Corbin, the search depends on identifying additional details that can help investigators narrow down where he may have gone after leaving the facility.
The missing-person investigation is occurring in the same week as normal summer travel and family schedules across southeastern Kentucky, which can affect how quickly residents notice missing persons or can recall relevant activity in the hours after hospital visits end.
In such cases, Kentucky State Police typically rely on tips from the public, including last-known sightings, calls to law enforcement, and information that can be tied to specific times and places. Anyone with knowledge of Leath’s whereabouts after Thursday evening is urged to contact authorities, according to the reporting.
For family members and the Knox County community, the practical impact of a missing-person case can include disruptions to daily routines and the need for sustained attention until an update is confirmed. Hospital staff, law enforcement, and relatives often continue coordinating as leads develop or as additional information is provided.
As the search continues, the next updates are expected to focus on any new sightings or information that can confirm where Leath may be located, and whether further investigative steps are required as the timeline extends beyond the initial last-known departure from Baptist Health Corbin.
Why It Matters
- The case’s timing begins with a specific last-known departure at approximately 6:30 p.m. Thursday, which can guide search zones and tip verification.
- Because the report ties the disappearance to a hospital, it highlights the importance of accurate last-known information for public safety responses.
- A missing-person investigation affects family members and the broader community as search activity and coordination continue.
- Ongoing coordination among hospital staff and law enforcement can reduce the time between last-known sightings and confirmed leads.
Key Facts
- Kentucky State Police are searching for Donnie E. Leath, 48, of Barbourville.
- WKYT reported Leath was last seen leaving Baptist Health Corbin at about 6:30 p.m. Thursday.
- The search is tied to his last-known location at the hospital in Knox County.
- The case has been handled by Kentucky State Police after he was reported missing.
- The investigation is continuing, with public tips expected to play a role.