On January 26, 2020, just after 6:00 p.m. Metro 911 received a 911 call indicating a disturbance was occurring on Bluebell Drive in Cross Lanes, WV. The first Deputy on scene saw Michael Oakes (34 years old of Cross Lanes, WV) in his pickup truck preparing to leave his house. Deputy B. Kay exited his cruiser and was struck by the F-150 truck as Mr. Oakes placed it in reverse. The truck struck Deputy Kay, then his cruiser; then struck a neighbor’s fence, car, and house; then fled the area. Deputy Kay was not seriously injured during the incident.
While traveling Big Tyler Road he struck another vehicle. The occupants of that vehicle were transported to an area hospital for treatment to injuries.
On Sissonville Drive (near Martin’s Branch) Mr. Oakes’ vehicle was spotted and pursued by another Deputy Sheriff who followed him until he crashed a short distance away. He was combative with Deputies during the arrest. Mr. Oakes showed signs of intoxication, but refused to participate in field sobriety tests. A sample of his blood was obtained after a search warrant was issued. The blood will be tested and may be used to demonstrate intoxication resulting in additional charges.
Other Deputies went to the residence on Bluebell Drive to investigate the initial disturbance and property damage in the neighborhood. A domestic dispute between Mr. Oakes and his wife was the catalyst for the 911 call.
Mr. Oakes was charged last night with strangulation, a felony. Other charges which may be considered by the Kanawha County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office are domestic violence with a minor child, and charges related to the pursuit such as fleeing, driving under the influence, and committing those crimes while causing injury and property damage.
As is always the case in criminal matters the charges against Mr. Oakes are merely accusations. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.