Randall Mabe Obituary, Death Cause – Authorities have shared additional details about a tragic incident in Mercer County, West Virginia, that involved both a family dispute and an officer-involved shooting on Thursday, November 6, 2025. According to a statement from the West Virginia State Police, the situation began when emergency dispatchers received a report of a man lying in the roadway in the Rock area. Troopers quickly responded to the call and discovered that the man, later identified as 80-year-old Randall Mabe of Rock, had sustained injuries consistent with gunfire.
When officers arrived, Randall reportedly informed them that his brother, 72-year-old Fredrick Mabe, was responsible for the shooting. Troopers were told that after the incident, Fredrick had returned to his home nearby and had secured himself inside with a firearm.
Given the potential danger, authorities immediately set up a perimeter around the property to ensure the safety of residents and responding personnel. Multiple law enforcement agencies were called in to assist, including Special Response Teams trained for high-risk situations. Officers worked to de-escalate the situation and attempted to make contact with Fredrick in hopes of resolving the matter peacefully.
However, according to officials, the situation escalated when Fredrick reportedly began firing toward members of the response team from inside the home. Officers returned fire in response to the threat, and Fredrick was fatally injured during the exchange.
Following the confrontation, law enforcement personnel entered the residence to secure the area and ensure that there were no additional safety risks. Medical responders on the scene confirmed that Fredrick had passed away. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.
Meanwhile, Randall Mabe was provided immediate medical assistance at the scene before being transported to a nearby hospital. Authorities said his injuries were not life-threatening, and he is expected to recover.
The West Virginia State Police have stated that the investigation into the event remains active and ongoing. In accordance with standard procedure, the incident will be reviewed to ensure that all actions taken were consistent with department protocols and state law. Investigators will analyze evidence from the scene, including body camera footage, shell casings, and witness accounts, to piece together the sequence of events that led to the fatal outcome.
Community members in Rock, a small and close-knit area, expressed shock over the incident, noting that it is rare for such events to occur there. Many described the situation as deeply saddening, especially since it involved two elderly brothers.
Officials emphasized that law enforcement officers made every effort to handle the situation carefully and to protect both the public and those involved. The decision to return fire, according to the state police statement, came only after officers were met with direct gunfire and faced imminent danger.
Authorities are also expected to provide a full report to the Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office once the investigation concludes. The report will detail the findings from both the initial family dispute and the subsequent officer-involved shooting.
In a brief statement, the West Virginia State Police extended their condolences to the family members affected by the tragedy and reaffirmed their commitment to transparency as the case is reviewed.
The incident underscores the complex and unpredictable nature of domestic disputes that escalate into violent situations. Law enforcement agencies throughout the state have continued to stress the importance of seeking help early in family conflicts before they spiral out of control.
As of now, the area around the scene has been cleared, and no further danger to the public remains. Authorities said they will not release additional details until the internal review is complete and all evidence has been processed.
The West Virginia State Police are encouraging anyone who may have witnessed any part of the incident or has additional information to contact their local detachment. Meanwhile, the community continues to grieve and process the loss while offering support to those directly impacted.
