WELCH, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Two people are facing charges following an alleged assault and robbery that left a man injured and fearing for his life in McDowell County.
According to a report from the McDowell County Sheriff’s Office, a corporal was dispatched to Welch Community Hospital around 11:11 p.m. on February 20, 2026, after receiving a report of a battery complaint involving an injured victim.
Upon arrival at the hospital, the officer spoke with the victim, who told authorities the incident had occurred earlier at a residence located along Coal Heritage Road in the Welch area of McDowell County.
The victim told police that Misty Lambert and Dawson Lambert had attacked him and prevented him from leaving the residence.
According to the report, the victim had gone to the home to meet with Dawson Lambert to trade collectible coins, something the two had reportedly done multiple times in the past. However, the situation allegedly escalated once he arrived at the residence.
The victim told police that Misty Lambert threatened him with a firearm and struck him in the face. He further alleged that Dawson Lambert then began repeatedly hitting him in the face, wearing a UFC-style glove on one hand and a camouflage glove on the other.
During the altercation, the victim reported that Misty Lambert allegedly pressed a firearm against the side of his head, further threatening him.
According to the victim, both suspects then prevented him from leaving the property, threatening him with bodily harm if he attempted to escape. The victim told police he was also warned that dogs would be released on him and that a sniper was positioned outside the residence if he tried to run out the back.
Authorities say the victim also reported that the suspects took his cellphone, which he estimated to be worth approximately $150, and closed a gate at the bottom of the driveway, preventing him from leaving the property.
The responding officer noted visible injuries on the victim’s face and body while speaking with him at the hospital.
The victim told police that he was eventually allowed to leave the residence after the suspects allegedly threatened to do worse if he reported the incident.
The victim also informed police that he was still able to track the location of his phone, which reportedly showed the device was still located at the Coal Heritage Road residence.
Authorities say the incident occurred in the Welch area of McDowell County, West Virginia, and the case remains under investigation.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
