Two Eastern Kentucky car dealerships are closed tonight, leaving dozens of people out of work. Johnny Watkins says gas prices and the economy played a role in the closing of his two London dealerships.

Chances are, you've probably seen one of their famous commercials on WYMT. Not now. Johnny Watkins told his approximately 50 employees this week the dealership is closed.

"Our hearts and prayers go out to them and their families. Just hope they can get back on their feet soon," said Randy Smith, Director of the London-Laurel County Chamber of Commerce.

What happened? Well it's still unclear exactly, but Watkins says off-camera that gas prices and the economy definitely made things difficult on the business.

"Deeply saddened. He's worked very hard to get where he's at today. He did a lot of things the right way. Just very unfortunate what has happened," Smith said.

A few employees are still wrapping up some final work, but we're told operations have stopped at Watkins Chrysler dealership in South London and will soon stop at the GMC dealer in North London.

"He and his business will be obviously missed in our community. We're still hoping that something can be rectified and we can see him back in business," Smith said.

And Smith says the London-Laurel County economy is still fairly strong and he's hoping that will help the area weather the economic storm.

We tried to reach officials with Chrysler and GM for comment on the dealerships closing, but we've not heard back.