August 14, 2023
MEDIA CONTACT:
DEPUTY DAVID MOYER
(540) 928-2260
DMOYER@BOTETOURTVA.GOV
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE--
SHERIFF’S OFFICE MAKES MULTIPLE ARREST FOLLOWING PHYSICAL ALTERCATIONS ON THE JAMES RIVER
FINCASTLE, VA – Botetourt County Deputies have made multiple arrests after a swift and immediate response to a reported physical altercation involving a group of kayakers along the James River near the Town of Buchanan.
On August 12, 2023, at approximately 4:04 p.m. deputies responded to a reported physical altercation near mile post 39 of the James River Water Trail. Deputies along with the Virginia State Police assisted by Volunteers of the Botetourt County Department of Fire and EMS arrived with motorized watercraft to begin searching the waterway between the Town of Buchanan boat landing and the Arcadia boat landing. Officers soon located an intoxicated kayaker along with a female companion who had been involved in the altercation. Deputies determined the altercation stemmed from them being left behind earlier after losing their kayak and paddle. They later rejoined the group, confronting them about being left behind and a physical altercation ensued. Others within the group then joined in the brawl resulting in one kayaker suffering from a laceration after being struck in the back of the head with a paddle.
As a result of the investigation, five (5) individuals were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in the assault and battery incident. The following suspects have been identified and arrested for the following:
MULTIPLE ARRESTS ON THE JAMES RIVER
Adrianna Shepherd, 23, Hurt, VA
Public intoxication, Malicious wounding
Christopher Seeds, 24, Hurt, VA,
Public intoxication, Assault and Battery
Nikie Bowers, 31, Goodview, VA
Public intoxication, Assault and Battery
Remington Wright, 31, Goodview, VA
Public Intoxication
Sammie Byrnes, 25, Goodview, VA
Assault and Battery
“The Botetourt County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to maintaining the safety and security of our citizens,” said Sheriff Matt Ward. “Unsafe or illegal activity on our waterways will not be tolerated. We will uphold the laws so that everyone may enjoy the accessibility of our recreational opportunities and the natural resources our county has to offer.”
Media inquiries should be directed to [Deputy David Moyer at 540-928-2260].
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