Beckley, West Virginia — Two men were arrested Friday after a suspicious person report on Business Street prompted a multi-agency investigation.
According to the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded Friday, March 13, 2026, to the Business Street area in Beckley regarding a report of a suspicious individual.
During the investigation, deputies from the sheriff’s office — with assistance from the Beckley Police Department and the West Virginia State Police — located and apprehended two individuals identified as Michael Ward and Martin Brown, authorities said.
Officials say both men were taken into custody after allegedly attempting to flee during the investigation.
According to the sheriff’s office, the following charges were filed:
- Fleeing on foot
- Obstructing
- Petit larceny
- Conspiracy to commit a misdemeanor
- Conspiracy to commit a felony
- Prohibited burning
- Damage or destruction of a utility (telecommunication)
- Violation of the Critical Infrastructure Protection Act
Authorities said both suspects were issued $100,000 bonds by Magistrate Blume.
Sheriff Frank Priddy and Chief Deputy Frankie Shelton commended responding officers and thanked the Beckley Police Department and West Virginia State Police for their assistance in locating and apprehending the suspects.
Officials said the incident reflects coordination between agencies working together to address potential public safety concerns in the community.
The investigation began with a suspicious person call but expanded as officers gathered additional information during the response.
Incidents like this can affect daily routines for commuters, nearby workers, and students traveling through central Beckley corridors.
All suspects are considered innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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