by Huntington, West Virginia — A middle school basketball coach and a city employee were among two men killed in an early morning triple shooting that has left the Huntington community grieving.
The Huntington Police Department said the shooting occurred around 2:30 a.m. Friday on 14th Street.
Officers responding to the scene discovered two men suffering from gunshot wounds in a parking lot. One victim was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second later died at a local hospital. A third man arrived at the hospital following the shooting, but authorities have not released details about his condition.
Victims Identified as Brothers
Huntington Police Chief Phil Watkins identified the two men killed as 26-year-old Adrian Phillips and 39-year-old Derious Johnson.
In a statement shared on social media, Patrick J. Farrell confirmed the two men were brothers.
“Adrian and Derious were brothers. This tragedy has devastated a family and shaken our community,” the mayor wrote.
Police have not announced any arrests, and it remains unclear whether suspects have been identified. Authorities are urging anyone with information to contact investigators at 304-696-4444.
“This violence is unacceptable. We will not tolerate this brutality in our city,” Mayor Farrell added.
“Law enforcement is fully engaged.”
Community Mourns Beloved Coach
Johnson served as a middle school basketball coach at St. Joseph Catholic School in Huntington.
Principal Carol Templeton described him as a “beloved coach, mentor, parent, and friend.”
“As our school community begins processing this unbelievable grief, our chaplain, grief counselors, and mental health professionals will be on hand,” Templeton wrote.
Mayor Farrell also remembered Johnson as “a mentor who invested deeply in young people.”
City Worker Remembered for Service
Phillips worked for the City of Huntington’s Public Works Department in the Street Division.
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City officials described his death as a “tragic loss”, noting that he approached his work with dedication and pride.
“He was always eager to learn and improve, and he was never without a smile,” the city said in a statement.
Mayor Farrell said Phillips consistently showed up to serve the community with professionalism.
“His loss is deeply felt across our City team.”
Investigation Ongoing
Police have not released additional details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting or what may have led to the violence.
As the investigation continues, Huntington residents are mourning the loss of two brothers whose work and presence impacted many across the city.
Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the Huntington Police Department.
How is your community responding to this tragedy? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
