Fatal Crash on East Dupont Avenue

On Tuesday, January 7, 2026, at approximately 6:30 p.m., Kanawha County deputies responded to a fatal vehicle crash in the 10000 block of East Dupont Avenue in London, West Virginia.

Deputies determined that a white Kia Optima was traveling westbound on East Dupont Avenue when the vehicle pulled off to the right side of the roadway and stopped briefly. The Kia then attempted to make a U-turn back onto the roadway and was struck by a pickup truck that was also traveling westbound. The impact caused the pickup truck to collide with the driver’s side of the Kia.

The driver of the Kia Optima was identified as Sharon Williams, 65, of Hansford, West Virginia. Ms. Williams was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Also inside the Kia Optima was a six-year-old child, who was transported by medics to the hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries. The child was not using a booster chair as required by law and was sitting in the front passenger seat.

The two occupants of the pickup truck were transported by Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority medics for treatment of minor injuries.

At this time, no charges are expected to be filed in connection with this incident. The crash remains under investigation by the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office.

The Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public of the importance of properly restraining children in age- and size-appropriate car seats or booster seats, and ensuring children are seated in the appropriate area of the vehicle.

Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and loved ones during this difficult time.