SHEPHERDSTOWN, W.Va. — A 19-year-old man was shot and killed early Friday morning inside an apartment near Shepherd University, prompting a swift response from multiple law enforcement agencies. Dispatchers received a call shortly after 3:30 a.m. reporting that a man had been shot multiple times at the University Heights Apartment complex off Hensel Drive. The caller told authorities that the suspect had fled the scene on foot.
When deputies and first responders arrived, they found 19-year-old Evan Taylor inside the apartment suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Despite their efforts, Taylor was pronounced dead at the scene. The tragic incident has shaken the Shepherdstown community, particularly students and residents living near the university.
Witnesses quickly provided the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and Shepherd University Police Department with a description of the suspect. Shepherd PD Officer Adam Letts reviewed university surveillance footage and identified a man matching that description. The suspect, identified as 25-year-old Travis Smith, was seen on camera moving toward the H Lot parking area, where he entered a vehicle.
Officers Letts and Ricketts located and detained Smith shortly after reviewing the footage. Authorities reported that Smith was found in possession of a loaded Glock handgun at the time of his arrest. According to the Sheriff’s Office, Smith has been charged with murder in connection with Taylor’s death. Officials emphasized that the investigation remains active as detectives continue gathering evidence.
Sheriff Thomas Hansen expressed gratitude to the agencies that assisted in the rapid response and arrest. These included the Charles Town, Ranson, Shepherdstown, and Shepherd University Police Departments, as well as the Martinsburg Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Jefferson County Emergency Services Agency. Their coordinated effort played a key role in quickly identifying and apprehending the suspect.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the shooting to come forward. Lt. Steven Holz of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation and can be reached at (304) 728-3205. As the community mourns the loss of Evan Taylor, law enforcement officials remain focused on ensuring justice is served and on maintaining safety in the area.
