WELCH, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a Welch man after deputies found him deceased inside a residence Thursday morning.
According to the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 11:59 a.m. on Thursday, July 30, to a residence at 71 Maple Terrace in Welch after McDowell County Communications received a report from the homeowner of a possible deceased individual.
Due to a conflict of interest, the Welch Police Department requested that the Sheriff’s Office handle the investigation.
Deputies made contact with the homeowner, who told investigators she and her significant other had awakened and gone downstairs, where they found 43-year-old Travis New possibly deceased. The homeowner told deputies that New was a friend who had been staying at the residence.
Deputies entered the home and found New deceased inside.
Investigators processed the scene, documented evidence and interviewed individuals who had recently been in contact with New.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, investigators recovered suspected fentanyl and drug paraphernalia in the immediate area where New had reportedly been sleeping, as well as in his pockets.
Investigators also said interviews conducted at the scene indicated New had recently exhibited behavior consistent with possible drug use.
New’s body was transported to the West Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, where an autopsy has been completed or is in progress. The official cause and manner of death remain pending toxicology results and the medical examiner’s final report.
The Sheriff’s Office said investigators have found no evidence of foul play. Based on the evidence collected at the scene, investigators believe the death is consistent with a drug overdose. The investigation will remain open until the medical examiner’s findings have been received and reviewed.
The McDowell County Sheriff’s Office said it has notified members of New’s family and extended its condolences to his family and friends.
