PIPESTEM, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A man was arrested after authorities say he was found passed out behind the wheel of a running vehicle at Pipestem State Park, with the vehicle still in drive and a knife in his hand.
According to the Summers County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to the area of the park’s lookout tower after two people reported seeing a vehicle being driven by someone they believed may have been intoxicated.
Sheriff Faris arrived and located Samuel Walker unconscious behind the wheel. Authorities said the vehicle was running and in drive, and Walker was holding a knife while unconscious.
After several attempts, deputies and members of the West Virginia State Police were able to wake Walker and safely begin an investigation.
The sheriff’s office said deputies found fentanyl, gabapentin and hydrochloride pills inside the vehicle. Three firearms were also recovered, including one that authorities determined had been reported stolen in Florida.
Walker was arrested and charged with three counts of possession of a controlled substance, DUI and prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
The Summers County Sheriff’s Office credited the two people who reported the vehicle for recognizing the potentially dangerous situation and contacting authorities, saying their actions may have prevented a serious crash or injury.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
