GREENBRIER COUNTY, W.Va. — Authorities are delving into a murder investigation that unfolded early Wednesday morning, September 3, 2025, in Greenbrier County. The tragic incident, which left one person dead and another severely injured, prompted a swift response from local law enforcement agencies.
Sheriff Bart Baker reported that deputies arrived at a residence on Morgan Cemetery Road, where they observed a white SUV departing the scene. When officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the driver accelerated and fled. A deputy pursued the vehicle, while another remained on-site to gather information about the unfolding situation.
The chase involved collaboration with members of the Lewisburg, Ronceverte, and White Sulphur Springs police departments. The pursuit concluded at a gas station in Fairlea, where 42-year-old Michael Loudermilk Jr. was apprehended after a brief altercation.
Loudermilk is now facing murder charges along with several other offenses. In the course of the investigation, officials identified the victim as Quailynn Banks, a 36-year-old woman from Florida. Additionally, a 52-year-old man, Brian Loudermilk from Greenbrier County, suffered serious injuries during the incident.
Preliminary findings indicate that both the fatality and the injuries were the result of blunt force trauma. The West Virginia Medical Examiner’s Office will conduct a formal examination to establish the official cause of death.
As investigators process the scene and collect evidence, they indicated that search warrants will be executed to facilitate the inquiry. The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities working diligently to uncover more details regarding the circumstances surrounding the event.
The community is urged to stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops. Local law enforcement is committed to providing the public with relevant information as they continue their investigation into this tragic case.