HICO, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A Fayette County woman is facing multiple charges following a crash Tuesday night that deputies say involved intoxicated driving and an alleged assault on emergency medical personnel.
According to the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched around 9:44 p.m. on February 17, 2026, to Patriot Lane in Hico after a neighbor reported what was believed to be a domestic disturbance. When officers arrived, they discovered the call actually involved a motor vehicle crash.
Authorities say Stephanie Marie Fox had crashed a Kia Optima into a tree roughly 100 feet from a residence on Patriot Lane following an argument with her boyfriend.
Deputies reported Fox was already inside an ambulance when they arrived and was allegedly loud, agitated, and yelling at first responders. Investigators say Fox allegedly attempted to swing at and headbutt a Jan-Care EMS medic who was performing her duties at the scene. She is charged under state law for assault on EMS personnel.
Officials said Fox refused medical treatment and was taken into custody. Deputies reported smelling a strong odor of alcohol and noted she had difficulty maintaining her balance. Due to her combative behavior, field sobriety tests were not performed.
During processing, Fox admitted to drinking beer but said she did not know how much she consumed or remember details of driving. She later agreed to a breath test, which reportedly showed a blood alcohol concentration of .140, nearly twice the legal limit.
Fox is charged with DUI first offense along with the assault charge. She was transported to Plateau Medical Center for evaluation following the crash and later taken to Southern Regional Jail to await arraignment before a Fayette County magistrate.
All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
