SALEM, W.Va. — A Doddridge County man is in jail charged with attempted murder after shooting at state police troopers.
According to troopers, Richard America III, 44, of Salem, opened fire on three troopers and one Doddridge County deputies Thursday evening as they approached his residence on Big Isaac Road with a search warrant.
Troopers obtained the search warrant after receiving a call earlier in the day that said America had brandished an AR-15 rifle at his stepson and friend. America is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of previous legal issues.
Troopers said America began shooting at the officers as they approached his hilltop residence. They retreated and called for backup.
America eventually surrendered, troopers said.
He’s in jail charged with six counts of attempted murder and two counts of wanton endangerment with a firearm.
The investigation is continuing.