PHILIPPI, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A tense situation unfolded on Maple Avenue in Philippi on December 21, 2024, as Barbour County deputies responded to reports of a woman experiencing a mental health crisis while armed with a firearm.
Deputies Williams, Whited, and Corporal Kennedy arrived at 177 Maple Avenue to find Rebecca Shumway standing just off the back porch of the residence, holding a revolver. Despite repeated verbal commands to drop the weapon, Shumway failed to comply, instead retreating onto the porch and out of sight of the deputies.
Deputies continued to issue commands for Shumway to come out, but she did not respond. At one point, Shumway stated she did not intend to harm the deputies but pointed the firearm toward a hillside behind the residence.
Given the continued noncompliance and the potential risk, Corporal Kennedy deployed a taser to subdue Shumway. Deputies were then able to place her in restraints without further incident.
Shumway was transported to Broaddus Hospital for a medical evaluation and was later transferred to Tygart Valley Regional Jail and Correctional Facility. She is being held pending arraignment.
