HINTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A Summers County man is behind bars after a bizarre early morning incident involving a car crash, a knife, and a series of alarming disturbances at several homes along Madams Creek Road.
Around 3 a.m. Wednesday, law enforcement responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a suspicious individual banging on doors and behaving erratically. While en route, officers discovered a silver Ford Focus that had crashed into a fence. The vehicle was empty, prompting further investigation down the road.
A nearby resident, flagged down the responding officer and directed him to a neighboring porch where the suspect was located.
The man, identified as James Sellards Jr., was found holding a knife and flashlight, visibly agitated. After being ordered to drop the weapon, Sellards complied and was questioned about his behavior. He claimed that “multiple people” in his car had threatened him, causing him to crash and flee on foot. However, officers found no evidence of other individuals in or near the vehicle.
Sellards admitted to consuming methamphetamine three days earlier and initially claimed he had only one beer earlier that evening. A Preliminary Breath Test showed 0.000% blood alcohol content. Based on his behavior and statements, officers placed Sellards under arrest.
He was taken to the Summers County Sheriff’s Department for processing, then to BARH for medical clearance before being transported to Southern Regional Jail, where he awaits arraignment.
The crash caused damage to a fence owned by Stephen Mounts, who is expected to follow up with police regarding the cost of repairs. Multiple residents confirmed Sellards had been told to leave their properties several times, but he refused.
The incident was captured on the officer’s body-worn camera, and photos of the vehicle and property damage were taken as part of the investigation.
Sellards faces multiple charges stemming from trespassing, disorderly conduct, and property damage.
