South Charleston, West Virginia - On August 16, 2010 Trooper First Class S. L. Bartram, along with Troopers assigned to the Hamlin Detachment of the West Virginia State Police, responded to a physical altercation at Bear Fork Road, in the Yawkey area of Lincoln County. Upon arrival, the Troopers discovered Mr. Thomas R. Weekley (42 years of age, from Griffithsville, West Virginia) lying unresponsive on the front porch of the residence. The Troopers unsuccessfully attempted to render first aid.

During the course of the investigation, the Troopers were advised that Mr. Weekley had arrived at the residence of Mr. Fredrick C. Pace, Jr. (47 years of age) and Mr. Donald C. Pace (21 years of age) and accused them of cutting the tires on his four-wheeler ATV. Mr. Weekley died as a result of the ensuing physical altercation with the Pace's.

At this time the investigation continues and no charges have been filed. Once the investigation is completed, any potential criminal charges will be discussed with the Lincoln County Prosecutor's Office.

Fredrick Pace is the Editor of the Coal Valley News.