Berkeley County, WV – A fatal crash on Interstate 81 in Berkeley County claimed the life of a 5-year-old child early Saturday morning, forcing a multi-hour closure of the southbound lanes and triggering an ongoing criminal investigation.
According to the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched to a serious traffic collision on Interstate 81 southbound near the six-mile marker at approximately 4:00 a.m. Saturday, January 4, 2026. Initial reports indicated a tractor-trailer collided with a pickup truck, with a possible ejection reported.
When deputies arrived, both vehicles were found off the roadway with significant damage, officials said. The adult drivers of both vehicles were located at the scene, along with a juvenile occupant who had been ejected from the pickup truck.
Emergency responders immediately began life-saving measures on the child, who was unresponsive. The juvenile was transported to Winchester Medical Center, where the child was later pronounced deceased.
The driver of the pickup truck sustained injuries and was transported for medical treatment. The driver of the tractor-trailer was evaluated at the scene, authorities confirmed.
Interstate 81 southbound remained closed for several hours as investigators processed the scene and cleared debris, causing early-morning traffic delays in the Martinsburg area and surrounding Berkeley County.
Officials said a full traffic collision investigation is underway, with evidence collected and extensive follow-up planned. According to the sheriff’s office, multiple potential criminal violations are being considered, though no charges have been announced at this time.
Anyone with information related to the crash is urged to contact Sergeant Ritchie at 304-267-7000. Anonymous tips can also be submitted online through the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office tip portal.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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