FRANKFORT - Preliminary statistics* indicate that seven people died in six separate crashes on Kentucky's roadways during the New Year's holiday period.

This is an increase of two fatalities from the four-day 2003-2004 New Year's holiday period during which five people died in five crashes.

Of the six fatal New Year's holiday crashes, preliminary data* indicates alcohol was a suspected factor in three of the crashes and five of the victims were not wearing seat belts.

One double fatality crash occurred in Grant County. Two single fatality crashes occurred in Harlan County. Single fatality crashes also occurred in Fayette, Hart and Laurel counties.

The official New Year's holiday period started at 6 p.m. on Friday, December 31, 2004 and ran through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, January 2, 2005. All statistics are from that time period.

Preliminary information* indicates that 955 people were killed on Kentucky roadways in 2004, 24 more than in 2003.

This number could rise over the next 30 days as law enforcement agencies continue to report crashes.

(*These statistics are still preliminary as KSP waits for all local law enforcement agencies to report any crashes and fatalities that may have occurred in their areas. )