WV KNIFE AND GUN CLUB - CHARLESTON STUDENT MURDERED ON STREET

(04/09/2021)
STUDENT MURDERED - Charleston’s mayor and police chief called the fatal shooting of an 18-year-old Capital High School student a “senseless act,” and the chief said police will pull out all the stops to find the person or persons responsible.

Police identified the high student who was gunned down Wednesday night on Central Avenue as Kelvin “K.J.” Taylor, who played basketball and football at Capital High School.

“Everyone in our city and our community is hurting over the senseless act of violence and the death of Kelvin “K.J.” Taylor,” Mayor Amy Shuler Goodwin said at a news conference. “We will do everything in our power to find who took the life of this young man, a bright, wonderful young man.”

The shooting happened about 8 p.m. on Central Avenue, near the cross streets of Glenwood Avenue and Park Avenue. Police said the victim was shot in the chest.

No one has been arrested in the incident.

Charleston Police Chief James “Tyke” Hunt said officers were at the scene before the call was even dispatched after people were seen gathering and then running from the area. He said officers rendered aid to the victim, and the Charleston Fire Department did also, but they were unable to save him.

The chief said the entire detective bureau, the special enforcement unit and Capital High School Resources were called in to help with the investigation. He said every stone will be turned as police work to solve the crime.

The chief also called for support in this difficult time for his family, friends and school community.