MARTINSBURG, W.Va. — West Virginia State Police are investigating the death of a woman who passed away last Sunday while in jail.
On Friday, May 5, Martinsburg Police responded after being notified by a Berkley County Deputy that they saw two people in a gold sedan actively using drugs in the parking lot of Anthony’s Pizza.
When officers arrived to the scene, they found two women, one as Morgan Bussard in the drivers seat, who had appeared to be using controlled substances. Children were also present in the vehicle.
The officers discovered drug paraphernalia in the vehicle around both the driver and passengers. They asked both adults to step out of the vehicle.
While doing so, Bussard began shoving items down her pants and pulling away from the officer, resulting in a struggle.
After the officer was able to get Bussard under control, EMS were called to the scene to test for the presence of drugs and to check Bussard’s elevated heart rate. Hand covers were placed over Bussard’s hands to prevent her from grabbing for any more items.
Bussard was taken to Berkley Medical Center for a medical examination, including a CT scan. She was then transported to the Eastern Regional Jail upon being discharged from the hospital.
The children in the vehicle were placed in the care of the Martinsburg Police Department’s Social Worker until they were taken into custody of a family member.
The police department was notified that Bussard had died on Sunday, May 7 in jail. The cause of her death has still not yet been determined.