Wayne County, W.Va. – A tragic traffic accident claimed the life of a local man on Tuesday night. According to the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred at approximately 11 p.m. on U.S. Route 52, about a quarter‑mile south of Little Hurricane Creek Road, between the communities of Prichard and Fort Gay.
Victim identified
The victim has been identified as 55‑year‑old William Arnold Perry of Fort Gay. Perry was walking along the roadway when a vehicle traveling north on Route 52 struck him. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Perry was pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigation ongoing
Deputies have not yet located the vehicle involved in the collision. The sheriff’s office is reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and conducting a thorough search of the surrounding area. They have asked anyone who may have seen the vehicle or who has any information about the incident to contact the department immediately.
Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling (304) 272‑6378. The sheriff’s office emphasizes that any detail, no matter how small, could prove crucial in identifying the driver and bringing closure to Perry’s family.
Community response
Local residents expressed shock and sorrow over the loss of a fellow community member. “William was a well‑known figure in Fort Gay,” said a neighbor who asked to remain unnamed. “His death is a reminder of how quickly life can change, and we hope the authorities can find the driver responsible.”
The incident also reignites concerns about roadway safety on U.S. Route 52, a major thoroughfare that sees a mix of local traffic and commercial trucks. While the sheriff’s office has not issued any new traffic advisories, they encourage drivers to remain vigilant, especially during nighttime hours.
How to help
If you were in the area around the time of the crash or have any information about a vehicle traveling north on Route 52 that night, please call the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office at (304) 272‑6378. Anonymous tips are welcome, and the department assures that all information will be treated confidentially.
The investigation remains active, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Original reporting: WCHS Eyewitness News Charleston (local) — read the source article.
