BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A routine traffic stop in Beckley on Monday resulted in multiple charges after officers reportedly discovered marijuana, a loaded handgun, and alleged threats made toward law enforcement.
According to police, an officer was patrolling along Robert C. Byrd Drive on May 5, 2026, when they observed a silver Toyota C-HR traveling without visible registration. The officer initiated a traffic stop after the vehicle turned onto Market Road and came to a stop in the parking lot of the local Toyota dealership.
The driver was identified as Michael Stone. While speaking with Stone, the officer reported smelling marijuana coming from inside the vehicle and also observed two small children seated in the back.
Police said Stone was asked to step out of the vehicle while another officer arrived on scene. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers allegedly located the remains of a marijuana cigarette in a cup holder and a loaded Glock 19 handgun underneath the driver’s seat.
Stone reportedly told officers he possessed a valid medical marijuana card and showed officers proof of an active card on his phone.
While officers waited for additional information from records at the Beckley Police Department, Stone allegedly made a threatening statement toward an officer, saying, “I should smash his face,” according to the complaint.
Police then placed Stone under arrest on charges including prohibited person in possession of a concealed firearm and assault on an officer.
During transport, officers reported Stone became combative inside the patrol vehicle. Authorities said he later slammed his head against the partition inside the cruiser, causing a laceration that required medical treatment at a local hospital before transport to Southern Regional Jail.
After reviewing Stone’s criminal history, officers reportedly discovered a prior domestic battery conviction dated June 16, 2021. Police said additional charges of prohibited person in possession of a concealed firearm and intimidation of a public official are being pursued.
The incident remains under investigation.
