West Virginia Sheriff's Association:
The West Virginia Sheriffs' Association would like to express its deepest sympathy and heartfelt thoughts to those involved in Tuesday night's shooting in Clay County.
After a DUI arrest one State Trooper was shot and killed while another was critically injured. The suspect fled, but was later found by a Roane County Deputy who was also injured when more gunfire ensued. Two Clay County Deputies were also at the scene.
It is incidents like these that remind us of the dangers of entering a law enforcement career. It is not just a job, it is a way of life. Our men and women in uniform make a conscious decision every day to put their lives on the line to protect all of us. It doesn't matter if you wear green, blue, or black- You are a family. Those involved are in our thoughts and prayers and we ask everyone to take the time and thank those in uniform today for their service.
W.Va. State Police:
Earlier this evening, a member of the West Virginia State Police was shot and killed in the line of duty following a traffic stop near I-79 in Clay County. Another member of the West Virginia State Police was seriously injured. A civilian tow-truck driver also suffered injuries.
Following the initial shooting, the suspect fled the scene. The suspect traveled a short distance before a Roane County Deputy Sheriff located and engaged him. The suspect and the deputy sheriff exchanged fire. In that exchange, the suspect was killed and the deputy sheriff sustained non-life-threatening injuries.
"The thoughts and prayers of the West Virginia State Police are with the family of the fallen Trooper and with those who were injured," said State Police spokesman First Sgt. Michael Baylous. "We will be releasing further information as it becomes available."
Sen. Joe Manchin, D-W.Va.:
"Gayle and I were deeply saddened when we learned of this terrible incident and immediately prayed for the fallen officer, those who were injured, and their families. Our law enforcement and first responders perform an amazing job each and every day, never blinking in the sight of danger. We join with fellow West Virginians as we continue to keep these officers and their loved ones in our thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time."
House of Delegates Speaker Richard Thompson:
I know I speak for every member of the House of Delegates in saying that our hearts ache for the loved ones of the State Police officer who lost his life in the line of duty, and we are praying for the officers who were injured and their families members. The men and women who serve and protect this state put their lives on the line every single day, a fact that is easy for us to forget in our day-to-day lives.
Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin:
"Early this evening several police officers were shot in the line of duty in Clay County," Tomblin said. "As we wait to hear from law enforcement and medical personnel on the conditions of these officers, Joanne and I hold them and their families in our prayers, and ask all West Virginians to join us. This tragedy reminds us of the sacrifices that our law enforcement officers make every day to keep us safe."
Shelly Moore Capito:
"Men and women in uniform selflessly serve and protect, often putting themselves in dangerous situations to keep us safe.
Yesterday one of our own State Troopers paid the ultimate sacrifice while on official duty.
My thoughts and prayers are with the loved ones he leaves behind, and I pray for the injured victims' full and quick recovery."
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