24-year-old deputy killed in crash with coal truck while on duty, sheriff’s office says

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In a tragic turn of events that has sent ripples of sorrow across communities far and wide, 24-year-old Deputy Caden Mullins lost his life while heroically responding to an emergency call. Just moments before, he was enjoying a festive truck-or-treat event with his fiancée, Sarah Miller, a scene that now feels heartbreakingly bittersweet, a poignant reminder of a future tragically cut short.

Deputy Mullins, a dedicated officer with the Logan County Sheriff’s Department, was killed on Saturday around 5 p.m. when his vehicle was struck by a coal truck at the intersection of Rum Creek Road and Route 10. He was on his way to drop off his beloved fiancée before heading to the emergency call, a selfless act of protection that underscores the depth of his character and commitment.

A Life Dedicated to Service and Family

Deputy Caden Mullins was not just a dedicated officer; he was a loving fiancé, a cherished son to David and Lisa Mullins, and a devoted brother to his two brothers and one sister. His decision to transition from the Charleston Police Department, where he served for approximately one year, to the Logan County Sheriff’s Department was driven by a profound desire to be closer to his loved ones, a testament to his strong family values and the importance he placed on an intact household.

Engaged to be married next spring, Caden and Sarah, a compassionate nurse, had met in high school and dreamed of building a life together, starting a family rooted in faith and love. Caden was a born-again Christian, actively involved in his church, living his faith every day, and often sharing his favorite Bible verse, Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” His pastor noted that Caden was a shining example of genuine faith in action.

On that fateful Saturday, Deputy Mullins and Sarah were enjoying a truck-or-treat event in Man, West Virginia, a joyous community gathering, when the emergency call came in. Without hesitation, Caden prepared to answer the call, embodying the very essence of public service. His last words to Sarah, “I love you, be safe,” were met with her equally heartfelt, “I love you too, hurry back,” a tender exchange that now echoes with profound grief.

The Tragic Collision and Its Aftermath

The crash occurred when a coal truck, driven by 62-year-old Billy Jack Marcum, pulled off the road and collided with Deputy Mullins’ vehicle. Sarah Miller, his fiancée, was airlifted from the scene to a hospital, where she remains in critical but stable condition. Her statement, “He was my everything. He died doing what he loved, protecting people,” encapsulates the immense loss and the noble spirit of the man she was to marry.

The West Virginia State Police are conducting a thorough investigation into the crash. Initial findings led to Marcum being charged with reckless driving. However, further scrutiny of Marcum’s driving record revealed a deeply troubling history of traffic violations, spanning over a decade and including offenses such as speeding, failure to maintain control, driving with a suspended license, and operating without insurance or proper registration. This pattern of disregard for road safety raises serious questions about enforcement and accountability.

Most alarmingly, Marcum’s commercial driver’s license (CDL) had been suspended for life in 2023 due to a DUI conviction, yet he was still operating a commercial vehicle at the time of the crash. This revelation has ignited a fierce debate about the efficacy of CDL suspension enforcement and the dangers posed by individuals who continue to drive despite being legally prohibited from doing so. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is closely monitoring the investigation.

P&P Trucking Under Scrutiny

Marcum was reportedly employed by P&P Trucking, though owner Paul Marcum claimed Billy Jack was a “subcontractor” rather than a direct employee. This distinction, often used to circumvent regulations, is now under intense legal and public scrutiny. P&P Trucking itself has a concerning safety record, with 18 violations out of 100 inspections in the past two years, including unsafe driving, hours of service violations, and vehicle maintenance issues.

The company’s “out-of-service” rate stands at 27.8%, significantly higher than the national average of 20.7%. Furthermore, FMCSA records indicate P&P Trucking has accumulated 10 crashes in the past two years, three resulting in injuries, though none previously fatal. The company currently holds a “Conditional” safety rating from the FMCSA, a status that is now under review and could lead to further penalties or even revocation of operating authority.

The family of Deputy Mullins, represented by his parents David and Lisa, is considering legal action against both Billy Jack Marcum and P&P Trucking. “Caden always wanted to serve. He was a good boy, a good man,” his father shared, while his mother Lisa added, “Our hearts are broken, but we know he’s with the Lord.” This tragedy underscores the critical need for robust oversight of commercial trucking operations to protect our communities and the brave men and women who serve them.

A Community United in Grief and Support

The loss of Deputy Mullins has profoundly impacted Logan County and beyond. Sheriff Paul Birch, visibly emotional, stated, “He was a great kid… He was going to be a great deputy.” Governor Jim Justice ordered flags to be flown at half-staff across West Virginia until sunset on the day of interment, declaring, “Another hero gone too soon.” A community vigil held Sunday evening saw hundreds gather for a candlelight procession from the Logan County Courthouse to the Sheriff’s Office, a testament to the deep respect and love held for Deputy Mullins.

Deputy Mullins’ funeral is scheduled for Wednesday at 1 p.m. at Man High School, followed by a procession from Evans Funeral Home to the school, and then to Forest Lawn Cemetery. His K9 partner, Ranger, a German Shepherd who was in the vehicle during the crash but survived with minor injuries, has now been retired and is living with the Mullins family, a comforting presence in their time of sorrow. Ranger was a vital part of Caden's life and service.

In Savannah, Georgia, our community deeply understands and shares in the sorrow when a dedicated law enforcement officer makes the ultimate sacrifice. Our city, like any strong American community, relies on the brave men and women of the Savannah Police Department and Chatham County Sheriff's Office who put their lives on the line daily. This story serves as a poignant reminder of the commitment and risks our local heroes face, fostering a collective sense of gratitude and support for their service and their families here at home, from the City of Savannah to Chatham County itself.

Remembering a Hero

Sheriff Birch has established the Caden Mullins Memorial Fund, which has already raised over $50,000, to support local youth programs and K9 units, honoring Caden’s legacy of community engagement. A local school principal recalled, “He often visited our school, talking to kids about safety. He was a true role model.” Local businesses have offered support, and law enforcement agencies across the state have extended their condolences, recognizing the profound impact of this loss on the brotherhood of service.

The community response has been overwhelming, a true reflection of the love and respect for Deputy Mullins, whose badge number, 217, will forever be etched in the hearts of Logan County. His hobbies included fishing, hiking, and spending time with his family, and he was a passionate fan of the West Virginia Mountaineers. His mother’s lasagna was his favorite meal, simple pleasures that paint a picture of a young man full of life and joy.

A Call for Action and Lasting Legacy

This tragedy has sparked increased calls for stricter trucking regulations and better enforcement of CDL suspensions across West Virginia. The Governor's Office and the West Virginia Legislature are expected to consider new bills addressing these critical issues in the upcoming session. The West Virginia Department of Transportation (WVDOT) is also reviewing the safety of Route 10, where the crash occurred, to identify potential improvements.

Deputy Caden Mullins’ story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and their families every single day. His commitment to service, his unwavering faith, and his dreams of a stable, loving household with Sarah Miller exemplify the very best of our American values. As the Logan County community unites in grief and support, they remember Deputy Mullins not just as a fallen officer, but as a beacon of hope and dedication, inspiring others to carry on his legacy of service and love.

The Mullins family has requested privacy during this difficult time but has expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of support. They have asked for donations to the Caden Mullins Memorial Fund in lieu of flowers, ensuring that Caden’s spirit of community and protection will continue to make a tangible difference. His legacy will live on, a testament to a life well-lived, though tragically cut short.

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