KANAWHA COUNTY, WV — July 26, 2025 — A tragic shooting incident in the Miami area of Kanawha County in the early hours of Saturday morning has left two individuals dead, sending shockwaves through the quiet rural community.
According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched shortly after 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, to the scene of a reported shooting along a residential stretch of Miami Hollow Road, a normally peaceful area nestled in the hills along the Kanawha River. Upon arrival, deputies discovered two adult victims—one male and one female—suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. Despite the swift response of emergency services, both victims were pronounced dead at the scene.
The names of the deceased have not yet been publicly released, pending notification of their next of kin. However, officials confirmed that the victims were believed to have been acquainted and were likely involved in a domestic or personal dispute that tragically turned violent. The nature of their relationship and the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under active investigation.
Neighbors in the area reported hearing multiple gunshots in rapid succession shortly after 2:30 a.m., followed by the sound of a vehicle leaving the area at high speed. One resident, who asked not to be named, described the scene as “something out of a nightmare” and expressed deep sorrow over the violence that disrupted their close-knit community.
In the hours following the incident, crime scene investigators, detectives, and deputies worked to secure the scene, collect evidence, and canvass the neighborhood for witnesses or surveillance footage that might shed light on what transpired. Forensic units were seen collecting shell casings and documenting what appeared to be signs of a struggle inside and outside the residence where the shooting occurred.
As of Saturday afternoon, no arrests have been made, and authorities have not named any suspects. However, Kanawha County Sheriff’s detectives are following multiple leads and interviewing individuals believed to have had recent contact with the victims. Officials say they are treating the case as a double homicide and are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Community in Mourning
The small, tightly bonded community of Miami in Kanawha County is grappling with shock and grief as news of the double homicide spreads. Local residents described the area as generally quiet and family-oriented, where such incidents are extremely rare. The sudden and violent nature of the tragedy has left many on edge and calling for answers.
“This is heartbreaking. These were our neighbors, and this is not something you ever expect to happen so close to home,” said one local resident.
Grief counselors and victim advocates from local agencies have been made available to family members and those impacted by the tragedy.
Sheriff’s Office Requesting Public Help
The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance as the investigation moves forward. Anyone who was in the Miami area between 2:00 and 3:00 a.m. Saturday morning, or who may have seen suspicious activity or heard anything unusual, is encouraged to contact the Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division at (304) 357-0169 or submit anonymous tips through the department’s website or Crime Stoppers.
“This is an active and sensitive investigation,” a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Our detectives are working diligently to uncover the truth. Any information, no matter how small it may seem, could be vital.”
As of now, authorities have not indicated whether a firearm has been recovered, nor have they commented on whether they believe the suspect remains in the area or has fled elsewhere.
A Developing Story
The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office is expected to provide additional updates as the investigation progresses. An autopsy for both victims will be conducted by the West Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, and further details may be released pending the results.
This tragic event marks yet another reminder of the devastating consequences of violence in communities, large and small. As families mourn and law enforcement continues its pursuit of justice, the Miami area and the wider Kanawha County community are left seeking both answers and healing in the aftermath of a senseless act.
Anyone with information is urged to contact:
Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office
Criminal Investigations Division
(304) 357-0169
This is a developing story. More updates will follow as they become available.
Leave a Reply