Death Investigation

According to a press release from the Tucker County Sheriff’s office, on Saturday, Sept. 10 2016 at approximately 6:30 p.m. Tucker County Sheriff’s Deputy B. T. Zirk and West Virginia State Police TFC J.J. Schmidle responded to Blackwater Falls State Park in Davis. Deputy Zirk and Trooper Schmidle were notified that a body had been discovered along the Blackwater River, in the park.
Once on scene the officers were directed to the location along the river, where the body was discovered by hikers. The officers observed a male individual with what appeared to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound. The officers were able to identify the decedent as a 25 year male from Ravenswood, WV. Park officials also identified the decedent from interactions with him the prior day. After processing the scene officers were taken to the decedent’s campsite by park officials. The decedent’s vehicle and belongings were recovered and secured by the officers.
Tucker County 911 was able to contact local law enforcement in the decedent’s home area and next if kin were notified. At this time there is no suspicion of foul play. The investigation is ongoing.