OCEANA, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Wyoming County man is facing charges after a tense incident at an Oceana apartment complex that involved a welfare check request, a foot pursuit, and an alleged attempted break-in.
According to a report from law enforcement, officers were on patrol in Oceana, West Virginia, on March 8, 2026, when they were dispatched to the Oceana Apartments to conduct a possible welfare check on a child.
Upon arriving at the scene, the responding officer was met by Nathan Wayne McCoy, who appeared visibly agitated. McCoy told the officer he was concerned about the welfare of a child inside one of the apartments and asked police to check on the child.
The officer advised McCoy that the request would be addressed. However, according to the report, McCoy insisted on accompanying the officer during the welfare check. The officer informed McCoy that he was not permitted to go to the apartment due to bond conditions from a prior arrest that prohibited him from having contact with a person staying there.
Police say McCoy became increasingly agitated, accusing the officer of not doing his job and insisting that he would go check on the child himself. The officer warned McCoy that interfering with the investigation could result in obstruction charges.
Despite the warning, McCoy allegedly ran toward the apartment building where the individual was staying. The officer ordered him to stop and moved around the building in an attempt to intercept him.
While the officer continued investigating the situation, he spoke with the resident of the apartment, who advised that McCoy could retrieve his dog and some personal belongings if he did so with police assistance.
When the officer returned to relay this information, McCoy allegedly began running away from the area while shouting. Lt. Cody Stewart arrived to assist, and both officers attempted to locate and speak with McCoy.
During the search, officers reported hearing a loud thumping noise coming from one of the apartment buildings. When they investigated, they allegedly observed McCoy striking the door of the apartment belonging to the resident.
Officers yelled for McCoy to stop, but he reportedly fled down the steps and around the building, leading officers on a foot pursuit. Authorities say McCoy ran toward Lt. Stewart before cutting across a nearby creek in an attempt to evade both officers.
According to the report, officers repeatedly ordered McCoy to stop, but he continued running and allegedly yelled back that he did not have to stop and told officers to leave him alone.
Despite the pursuit, McCoy was able to evade capture at that time.
Officers later spoke with the apartment resident, who told authorities that McCoy had attempted to break into the apartment during the incident.
Authorities say commands were clearly given for McCoy to stop so officers could carry out their duties while investigating the situation.
Charges related to the incident have been filed against McCoy.
All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
