Hampshire County, WV – Authorities in Hampshire County say a prolonged armed standoff in the Levels Drive area ended tragically Wednesday morning after a house fire claimed the life of a 91-year-old man.
According to the Hampshire County Sheriff’s Office, deputies first responded Monday, December 16, after receiving reports that a female resident was being threatened with a gun inside a home near Levels. The woman was able to contact 911 dispatchers before disconnecting the call.
When the first deputy arrived, the male suspect allegedly refused to come to the door. Dispatchers later established phone contact with both individuals, learning the male was in his 90s and the female victim in her 80s. Authorities confirmed the woman was being held at gunpoint and threatened with a knife.
After several hours of communication with dispatchers, the female victim was able to escape the residence unharmed. She told authorities the man was suffering from a prior brain bleed and experiencing mental health issues, which officials say may have contributed to his behavior.
A hostage negotiator with the West Virginia State Police continued speaking with the suspect for several more hours. Officials determined the man was unlikely to surrender peacefully and that forcing entry could have required deadly force. Because the suspect was alone and not posing an immediate threat to others, authorities chose to de-escalate and monitor the situation.
Deputies returned Tuesday, December 17, to serve arrest warrants and a Domestic Violence Protective Order. As officers prepared to make entry, they observed smoke coming from inside the home and found the door handles hot to the touch.
Fire departments were immediately called to the scene. Firefighters later located the male inside the residence, deceased. Preliminary information indicates he died from smoke inhalation. The fire caused extensive smoke, fire, and water damage to the home.
Officials say names are being withheld out of respect for the family. The West Virginia State Fire Marshal’s Office and the Medical Examiner are assisting with the investigation.
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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