By SHAWN STREET
shawn@virginiamediainc.com
Buchanan County Sheriff Allen Boyd has issued a statement regarding an incident earlier this month that resulted in a Honaker man seeking medical treatment at an area hospital.
Advertisements for a “Bonfire Party Part 2” circulated online in early June. The party was advertised for June 13 at 1212 Blackthorn Road near Grundy.
During the party, an alleged altercation took place that saw Honaker resident Clay Hall being assaulted.
Since that time, numerous stories and rumors have been shared online and verbally by residents of both Buchanan County and Russell County.
Boyd said the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office is aware of the social media posts and the seriousness of the allegations being made.
“While social media can bring attention to an incident, investigations cannot be based on online allegations alone,” Boyd said. “Law enforcement must rely on evidence, witness interviews, medical information when applicable, digital evidence, and facts that can be independently verified.”
Boyd went on to say that when alcohol or other “impairing substances” are involved, investigators must carefully evaluate the reliability and consistency of witness accounts.
“Intoxication does not automatically discredit a witness, but it can affect perception, memory and recollection,” Boyd explained.
He added, “Anyone with firsthand knowledge, video footage, photographs or other relevant information regarding the Blackthorn Road incident is encouraged to contact the Buchanan County Sheriff’s Office at 276-935-2313.
“Our responsibility is to follow the evidence wherever it leads and ensure any investigation is handled fairly, thoroughly, and within the law,” Boyd said.
