PRINCETON, WV – A Bluefield man is facing charges after an altercation in a Sheetz parking lot involving over a dozen people.
According to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred around 12:42 am on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at the Sheetz location on 151 Courthouse Road.
When deputies arrived, they found a large group of people. Witnesses said the initial fight was between James Price and Thomas Smith Jr. Smith’s vehicle was being towed when Price arrived and started shouting profanities at Smith and the tow truck driver. Despite Smith trying to calm things down, Price hit him with a closed fist.
Deputies noted that Price appeared intoxicated based on his speech and behavior. Surveillance footage confirmed that Price was the aggressor. He was arrested for Battery and Public Intoxication and taken into custody.
While in the police cruiser, Price vomited and asked for medical help. He was taken to Princeton Community Hospital, where he continued to be uncooperative and faced additional charges. He was then transported to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office.
James Price was ultimately charged with Battery, Obstruction, Disorderly Conduct, and Public Intoxication.