Yesterday morning a shooting was reported at a residence in Dalewood Trailer Park in Cross Lanes. When Deputies arrived to assist they met with the resident, Michael Jeffries, who told them he shot Joshua Hatfield several times while Mr. Hatfield attempted to rob him.
Mr. Jeffries said he drove his SUV to Putnam County with Elijah Hammons and a female. They stopped outside a residence and Mr. Hatfield ran to his vehicle and got inside. Mr. Hatfield and Mr. Hammons struck him and produced pistols. Mr. Hammons drove the vehicle to Mr. Jeffries’ residence in Cross Lanes.
Once there Mr. Hatfield ordered Mr. Jeffries inside and demanded money at gunpoint. Mr. Jeffries wrestled the gun away from Mr. Hatfield and shot him three or four times. Mr. Hatfield ran outside. Mr. Jeffries pursued him and saw Mr. Hammons fleeing in Mr. Jeffries SUV.
The vehicle was recovered several blocks from Thomas Memorial Hospital. Mr. Hatfield also also located inside the hospital being treated for gunshot wounds. Other evidence supports Mr. Jeffries’ account.
Warrants have been issued charging Mr. Hammons (20 years old of Cross Lanes, WV) with robbery, kidnapping, and grand larceny. Mr. Hatfield (32 years old of Charleston, WV) has also been charged with kidnapping and robbery.
Mr. Hatfield will be arrested after he is released from hospital care.
Mr. Hammons indicated he would turn himself this morning but failed to meet detectives. Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Mr. Hammons is asked to contact the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office at 304-357-0169, tips@kanawhasheriff.us, or submit an anonymous tip online at www.kanawhasheriff.us.
As is always the case in criminal matters, the charges in this case are merely accusations. Each is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Attached are two photos of Mr. Hammons.
Sgt
