MARTINSBURG — Two State Troopers have been shot and a man killed after officers entered a residence in Martinsburg to serve a battery warrant on an uncooperative 60-year-old man, according to a press release.
“On Sunday, December 17, 2023, at approximately 10:50 p.m., Troopers A. A. Bean and C. D. Spessert of the Martinsburg Detachment of the West Virginia State Police were attempting to serve an arrest warrant for battery at 117 Connell Street in Martinsburg, Berkeley County,” the release states. “The warrant was for Tobias Ganey, a 60-year-old white male.”
Officers communicated with the Ganey but he would not come outside, the release states.
“Troopers spoke with Mr. Ganey, who refused to open the door,” according to the release. “Troopers communicated with Mr. Ganey for an extended period, but he refused to come outside.”
Officers then entered the residence and were fired upon.
“Trooper Bean and Spessert then made entry into the residence to arrest Mr. Ganey,” the release states. “Troopers immediately were struck by bullets fired from Mr. Ganey at the troopers with his handgun. Troopers returned fire. During the exchange of gunfire, Trooper Bean was struck four times and Trooper Spessert was struck once. Mr. Ganey died at the scene.”
Both officers are in stable condition.
“Both Troopers were transported for emergency medical treatment,” according to the release. “Trooper Spessert was treated and admitted for observation and Trooper Bean has also been admitted and underwent surgery for serious injuries. Both Troopers are in stable condition and the investigation is ongoing by the West Virginia State Police.”