WYOMING COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A Wyoming County man is facing multiple felony and misdemeanor charges after state police say he trespassed on mine property, led officers on a high-speed pursuit, and was later caught following a break-in at the Pineville Little League Fields.
According to the West Virginia State Police, troopers were dispatched to mine property in the Pinnacle area around 7:59 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, 2026, following reports of trespassers on the property. A security guard told troopers two men wearing headlamps and covered in coal soot had been seen on the property before fleeing in a black Ford pickup truck.
Troopers later located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but the driver allegedly sped away, leading officers on a pursuit that lasted approximately 26 minutes across property and onto Pinnacle Creek Road.
Police said the suspect vehicle reached speeds exceeding 90 miles per hour while passing ATV riders and pedestrians near the trail system. During the chase, one patrol vehicle reportedly became inoperable due to mechanical issues, and a West Virginia Division of Natural Resources officer attempted to continue the pursuit but was unable to safely keep up with the fleeing truck.
The vehicle was eventually found abandoned near the Pineville Little League Fields. Troopers later identified the driver as Jonathan Paynter after a witness reportedly positively identified him from a photo lineup.
Investigators also discovered Paynter’s driver’s license had been revoked for DUI-related offenses.
Authorities say Paynter was initially charged with felony fleeing, driving revoked for DUI, and mine trespassing.
The following day, Sunday, May 10, 2026, troopers were called back to the Pineville Little League Fields after reports of an active break-in at the concession stand.
Dispatchers advised a man had allegedly broken into the building and stolen Gatorade before being detained by individuals at the scene until law enforcement arrived.
When troopers arrived, they encountered Paynter walking along Pinnacle Creek Road. Police detained him and reportedly found a knife and a piece of aluminum foil containing suspected methamphetamine in his pocket.
Troopers also recovered unopened packs of Starburst candy allegedly taken from the concession stand.
Investigators said the concession stand door’s deadbolt had been destroyed when it was pried open, causing approximately $50 in damage. Additional stolen items included Gatorade and candy.
Paynter was charged with breaking and entering, possession of a controlled substance, petit larceny, and destruction of property.
