SAINT ALBANS, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A warrant has been issued for a Saint Albans man in connection with a shooting that occurred Monday night along Coal River Road.
According to the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 9:11 p.m. on February 23, 2026, to a report of a shooting in the 12000 block of Coal River Road.
Upon arrival, deputies discovered that a man had been shot in the face.
The victim was identified as Mark Aaron Paul, 47, of Saint Albans. Authorities said Paul sustained a gunshot wound to the face and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
Investigators allege that a man known as “Smokey” entered the victim’s residence along with another man identified as Will Rhodes.
“Smokey” was reportedly wearing a black mask at the time.
Witnesses told deputies that the suspect pointed a firearm at Paul and threatened to kill him if he moved. When Paul moved, he was shot in the face.
During the investigation, detectives identified “Smokey” as Kenneth Dale Allen, 34, of Saint Albans.
Detective Alford with the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office has obtained a warrant charging Allen with malicious wounding. Authorities said Allen fled the scene before law enforcement arrived and remains at large.
Deputies are actively working to locate Allen. Officials believe the incident was isolated but warn that Allen is considered armed and dangerous.
Anyone with information regarding Allen’s whereabouts is urged to contact Detective Alford at the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office at 304-357-0556 or submit a tip through the department’s website. Authorities advise anyone who sees the suspect to call 911 immediately.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
