BECKLEY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A disturbing hostage situation at the Travel Lodge on Harper Road led to the arrest of three individuals after a man and his girlfriend were allegedly held against their will, threatened with firearms, and assaulted over a missing necklace.
Incident Details
On February 26, 2025, Beckley Police officers responded to a 911 hang-up call at the Travel Lodge. Dispatchers later directed them to the Dairy Queen next door, where they found Shon Simpson, the victim, with visible facial injuries. Simpson told officers that he and his girlfriend, Peggy Bowling, had been held captive in Room 74 of the Travel Lodge by Dustin Jones, Kimberly Edwards, and Kevin Mann.
Simpson explained that the situation began when Jones accused him of stealing a necklace and bracelet. Jones allegedly brandished a black handgun and insisted they could not leave until the jewelry was found. Over the next several hours, Jones handed the firearm to his girlfriend, Edwards, while he searched the room and their belongings.
Threats Escalate
During the ordeal, Jones called Kevin Mann, who soon arrived at the hotel room. Upon arrival, Mann allegedly pulled out a silver revolver, threatened Simpson, and struck him multiple times in the face, causing significant bleeding.
As the suspects began packing their belongings, Simpson seized an opportunity to escape. He ran to the hotel lobby and made the initial 911 call before fleeing to Dairy Queen, where he made another distress call and hid in the bathroom. Bowling also managed to escape in a different direction.
Suspects Located and Arrested
Officers later located Dustin Jones in a nearby parking lot. Jones admitted to officers that he believed Simpson stole his jewelry but denied holding anyone hostage or having a firearm. However, Jones confirmed that Mann arrived with a gun and assaulted Simpson.
Investigators determined that Kimberly Edwards booked the hotel room under the name “Kimberly Lusk”, but her phone number and email were linked to her real identity. Further evidence, including Edwards’ Facebook page, confirmed her connection to Jones, revealing that they were engaged.
Charges and Investigation
Based on victim and witness statements, Jones, Edwards, and Mann face multiple charges, including kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon, and unlawful restraint. Authorities continue their investigation into the incident.
This crime occurred in Beckley, Raleigh County, West Virginia.
