Restaurant owner murdered in Jackson County

Murder victim Bruce Deal, shot dead in the doorway of his home in Evans, W.Va. Thursday evening

EVANS, W.Va. — Residents in the Jackson County community of Evans are in shock at the news of the death of Bruce Deal.  Deal, the owner of the Left Fork Restaurant next door to his home, was shot dead in his doorway Wednesday evening.

“There’s no clear motivation for why Mr. Deal was killed,” said Jackson County Sheriff Tony Boggs. “However, it’s quite apparent he died of a single gunshot wound to the head without much provocation, or any.”

Authorities responded to Deal’s home in Evans around 6:30 p.m. on Thursday when his body was discovered.  They quickly developed a suspect and arrested that suspect early Friday morning at a home in Charleston.  Darrel “Pee Wee” Williams Jr. was picked up and charged with first degree murder.

“He’s blaming a methamphetamine high as to why he did it,” said the sheriff.

Williams was arraigned and placed in the South Central Regional Jail in Kanawha County.  Investigators believe the weapon used, a .380 caliber handgun, was stolen from Williams’ father earlier in the day.    Deal is Williams’ former brother-in-law.

Darrel “Pee Wee” Williams

The case has caused a shock wave in the normally quiet community.  Deal was well known and well respected.  Even Sheriff Boggs considered him a friend.

“He’s been in the restaurant business for years. He was running that restaurant successfully right next to where he lived,” said the Sheriff. “Everybody in the community knew who he was and as far as we know he was a very well respected citizen here.”





More News

News
As Yeager Airport's Wildlife Patrol Dog turns 7, a new dog comes in to learn from him
The new Border Collie is getting acclimated and receiving training for his soon-to-be role.
March 28, 2024 - 6:30 pm
News
Dunlow Volunteer Fire Department closes
The Dunlow VFD did not have a valid workers compensation insurance policy.
March 28, 2024 - 6:20 pm
News
PEIA examines financial effects of new law meant to ensure local pharmacies get fair reimbursements
Gov. Jim Justice signed Senate Bill 453 into law this week.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm
News
Barbour County woman sentenced after death case sent back to circuit court by Supreme Court
Carli Reed sentenced on voluntary manslaughter conviction.
March 28, 2024 - 4:11 pm