The Times West Virginian

Local News

June 29, 2009

Murder causes concern in community

By J. Miles Layton

FAIRMONT — People living near the scene of a recent murder near Fourth Street were still in shock Sunday about what happened.

“The news spread like wildfire — everybody is talking about what happened Friday. I’m still worried. I don’t feel safe,” said Sharonda Peterson, who lives a short hop away from the crime scene.

Samuel David Rollins, 18, of Fairmont, was arrested Friday and charged with the first-degree murder of Christopher Ray Martin, 21, of Fairmont.

According to the criminal complaint, Rollins fired several shots while he was chasing Martin down a private driveway onto Fourth Street in the 800 block near Nuzum Street. One of the gunshots hit Martin in the back, killing him. Two vehicles were towed from the scene because they had been hit by gunfire.

Rollins fled the scene, but later turned himself into police late Friday night at the corner of Fourth and Walnut streets.

Police said Rollins has been arraigned in Marion County Magistrate Court and is incarcerated in North Central Regional Jail. Marion County Circuit Court will decide whether or not to set bond.

Police said Sunday that the gun had not been found and that there are no new details on the case.



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