Severe flash flooding devastated several West Virginia communities over the weekend, leaving seven people dead and one person still unaccounted for. The disaster began late Saturday, June 14, when relentless storms dropped three to four inches of rain across Ohio County in just a few hours.
Rainfall continued into Sunday, overwhelming areas in Marion County. Fairmont, a town in the county, recorded nearly three inches of rain by Sunday morning. The intense storm conditions caused rivers and creeks to overflow, leading to severe flash flooding that left roads submerged and homes damaged.
Emergency responders had located the body the night before. Authorities identified the seventh victim as Connie Veronis, whose body was found near the Wetzel County dam. Connie’s husband, 74-year-old Michael Veronis, was also killed in the flood. The couple lived in Moundsville. Their deaths brought heartbreak to a community already reeling from earlier losses.
Five other victims came from the small town of Triadelphia. Chief Deputy Kent Lewis identified them at a press conference on Monday. They included 59-year-old Lisa McMasters, 73-year-old Michael Bokanovich, 19-year-old Travis Creighton, 26-year-old Kyleigh Minch Shotton, and her 3-year-old daughter.
One person remains missing. Authorities have not released the name of the missing individual. Search efforts continue with assistance from state and local rescue teams. In response to the disaster, Morrisey declared a state of emergency for Ohio County. This allowed emergency crews to act quickly and bring in needed resources. It also opened the door for possible federal assistance.
The community is still in shock. Many residents lost everything in a matter of hours. As cleanup continues, volunteers and first responders are working tirelessly to support those affected. Severe flash flooding turned peaceful neighborhoods into crisis zones almost overnight. With more rain in the forecast, officials are urging everyone in flood-prone areas to stay alert, take warnings seriously, and have emergency plans ready. Though the water has begun to recede, the emotional toll will take far longer to fade.
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