MOUNT CARBON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Fayette County man has been arrested following an investigation into the death of an incapacitated adult in the Mount Carbon area, according to Sheriff Jess McMullen.
Deputies with the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department Detective Bureau were notified on March 17, 2026, at approximately 8:08 p.m. by Fayette County Medical Examiner Scott Corder regarding the death of a 60-year-old woman at CAMC Memorial Hospital.
The medical examiner indicated that, based on his examination, neglect was suspected to have contributed to the woman’s death due to the severe and deteriorating condition of her wounds.
Earlier that same day, at approximately 12:59 a.m., emergency medical services responded to a residence on Deepmont Subdivision Road in Mount Carbon following a third-party complaint.
The victim was initially transported to Montgomery General Hospital before being transferred to CAMC Memorial Hospital for advanced treatment.
Medical personnel reported the woman arrived in extremely poor condition, suffering from severe wounds, infection, and signs of overall neglect.
She was later determined to be in septic shock and experiencing multiple serious medical issues.
During the investigation, authorities identified the victim’s son, Ryan Curtis Pruett, 28, of Mount Carbon, as her primary caregiver. Investigators also learned that prior concerns had been reported to Adult Protective Services regarding his ability to provide adequate care.
A search warrant executed at the residence revealed multiple individuals living in what officials described as deplorable conditions.
Deputies found three minor children, an adult with disabilities, and an elderly male inside the home.
Authorities said the children were in poor condition and had not been attending school or receiving medical care. Child Protective Services took custody of the children, and an investigation into possible child abuse and neglect is ongoing.
Detectives also determined that Pruett allegedly provided false information to authorities regarding his mother’s care.
Evidence indicated the victim had not received proper medical attention despite her worsening condition, and that emergency assistance was ultimately initiated by a third party.
Pruett has been charged with death of an incapacitated adult by a caregiver, as well as three counts of child neglect creating risk of injury, all felonies.
The investigation remains ongoing. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
