PBHS ​​2024 graduate killed in accident | News, Sports, Jobs

McDermott

VALLEY HEAD – Residents of Barbour County and surrounding communities are in mourning after a three-vehicle crash in Randolph County Sunday afternoon claimed the life of 18-year-old Keaton McDermott.

According to a press release from Randolph County Sheriff Rob Elbon, McDermott died after being involved in the accident in the area between Valley Head and Huttonsville.

When Randolph County Sheriff’s Office officers arrived at the scene, they found that two of the vehicles had sustained significant front-end damage from the collision, the release said. Two of the people involved in the crash were treated at the scene by Randolph County EMS, and two others were taken to Davis Medical Center.

“The Randolph County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our deepest condolences to the victims of this tragedy and will continue to pray for their peace during this tragic time,” Elbon wrote. “This crash is currently under investigation.”

McDermott, also known as “Beef,” graduated from Philip Barbour High School in May. He played for the varsity football team for four years and recently competed in the West Virginia High School Track and Field Championship after placing first in a regional competition.

McDermott was recently selected for the North-South All-Star football game in Charleston and had committed to West Virginia Wesleyan College, where he would compete for the Bobcats track and field team.

Members of the PBHS football team gathered on the football field Sunday night and Philip Barbour High School opened its doors to students in need of support on Monday.

The Taj Moe Hal in Philippi served as a gathering place for mourners Monday afternoon, and a public vigil was held at the soccer field later Monday evening. The vigil was open to anyone who wanted to show love and support for McDermott’s family and honor his memory.

Meal Train and GoFundMe accounts have been set up for McDermott to help his family during this time of need.

Other first responders at the scene included the West Virginia State Police, the Huttonsville-Mill Creek Fire Department and the Shavers Fork Fire and Rescue.