FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Two suspects were taken into custody on Monday, February 10, 2025, following an alleged burglary and police pursuit that ended in Fayette County.
At approximately 9:00 p.m., TFC T.D. Richardson of the West Virginia State Police Oak Hill Detachment was alerted by Fayette County 911 Communications of a burglary in progress at 132 Riner Dairy Road in Fayetteville. The residence, owned by Timothy Bragg, was vacant due to Bragg’s hospitalization, and no one was expected to be there.
A family member, Vickie Moore, reported seeing an unidentified black vehicle, possibly a Buick, at the scene. While responding to the call, Trooper Richardson spotted a vehicle matching the description and attempted a traffic stop. However, the driver fled at high speed, leading officers on a pursuit along Pleasant View Road and Gatewood Road, reaching speeds of 60 miles per hour.
The chase ended when the suspect vehicle, bearing West Virginia registration 61 UJ 39, stopped on Leavisy Road. Officers conducted a felony traffic stop, detaining the driver, identified as Harmony Waters, and the passenger, Jimmie Smith.
Upon questioning, Waters admitted to fleeing out of fear. Both suspects falsely claimed they had permission to enter the residence. However, a search of their vehicle revealed mail belonging to Timothy Bragg, and a further investigation found signs of forced entry at the property, with items appearing to be gathered for removal.
Authorities confirmed with Mr. Bragg that neither suspect had permission to be at the residence or in possession of the vehicle. The property was inspected, and officers documented evidence of burglary with photographs.
Both Waters and Smith were taken to the WVSP Oak Hill Detachment for processing before being transported to the Southern Regional Jail, where they await arraignment in Fayette County Magistrate Court.
