PHILIPPI, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A fatal overdose in Barbour County has led to a wide-ranging drug investigation after a child was found alone in a home where authorities say narcotics were present.
According to the Barbour County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded around 8:25 p.m. on March 23, 2026, to an overdose incident connected to a residence on West Spall Lick Road in Philippi. Junior Collins was later pronounced dead at Broaddus Hospital, while Jessica Blake was transported unconscious and remained hospitalized.
Officials say the couple’s child was not at the hospital, prompting immediate concern. Deputies responded to the home, where they found the front door standing open and conducted a welfare check. The child was not located inside.
During the search, deputies reported finding drug-related items in plain view, including a butane torch. A bag of suspected methamphetamine, weighing approximately 10.5 grams, was also discovered in the driveway.
A search warrant was later executed at the residence, where investigators say they located suspected marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and substances believed to be methamphetamine and fentanyl. One of the substances was reportedly found on a surface near where the child sleeps.
Authorities later determined the child had been taken to a relative’s home in Belington by a man identified as Jeremy Tacy, who had transported Collins and Blake to the hospital. The child was subsequently located and taken to the hospital by EMS for evaluation.
As the investigation continued, multiple individuals were interviewed. According to deputies, statements indicated that Tiara Miller allegedly provided Collins and Blake with what was believed to be cocaine prior to the overdose. Witnesses told investigators the pair ingested the substance shortly before experiencing medical distress.
Further investigation, including hospital surveillance footage, reportedly showed a vehicle stopping before arriving at the hospital, where an individual exited and removed suspected narcotics from the vehicle. Authorities also allege that Tacy attempted to conceal or destroy drug evidence following the incident.
Investigators later recovered additional suspected narcotics in a wooded area based on information provided during interviews.
Jessica Blake, who later regained consciousness and was interviewed from a recovery facility, reportedly told investigators that the substance provided to her and Collins caused her to feel lightheaded shortly after use. She also stated that additional drugs were present at the residence prior to the overdose.
Authorities say the investigation determined that the controlled substances allegedly supplied led to Collins’ death and Blake’s serious medical condition.
The case remains under investigation. Charges are expected as officials continue to review evidence and conduct interviews.
No further information has been released at this time.
