On October 20, 2024, the fire that engulfed the deserted home of former West Virginia Governor Hulett C. Smith on Crestview Drive in Beckley has taken a shocking twist. Two individuals, both former corrections officers, are now being charged with arson and conspiracy.
Arrests and Charges
David Cole, 30, and Billy Ray Workman Jr., 24, both residents of Beckley, have been charged in relation to the fire. Chief Deputy R.D. Bailey IV of the West Virginia Fire Marshal’s Office stated that Cole, a former firefighter with the Coal River Volunteer Fire Department, though inactive for several years.
Both men were working as corrections officers at Southern Regional Jail when the alleged arson took place. However, the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that they are no longer employed with the State Division of Corrections. The department also stated that they are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigation.
Timeline of the Fire
The dilapidated property was set ablaze a day before Raleigh County officials had scheduled its demolition. The Raleigh County Commission had decided to tear down the abandoned mansion, owned by Governor Jim Justice’s family, and place a lien on the property to cover the costs of demolition. The aim was to enhance the appeal of the area for redevelopment along Harper Road. Representatives from the Justice family’s business had agreed to the proposed demolition.
According to court documents, disturbing information about the arson has emerged. Cole reportedly confessed to investigators that he and Workman brought brake fluid to the empty mansion. Allegedly, Cole poured the fluid onto a Styrofoam plate on the floor and ignited it using a lighter. After leaving the scene, the two individuals apparently returned to observe the fire, with Cole allegedly capturing video footage of the blaze on his phone.
According to Workman, Cole instructed him to buy the brake fluid and went inside the house by himself before the fire started. These contradictory statements have not shed light on the motive yet. Chief Deputy Bailey, who refused to comment on this matter due to an ongoing prosecution, also confirmed that there is no evidence of an arson-for-hire conspiracy and emphasized that no further arrests are anticipated.
Previous Fire and Local Impact
Bailey acknowledged that there was a fire at the property in late September, but the specifics of the incident have not been revealed.
The mansion, which was constructed in 1953, was formerly occupied by Governor Hulett C. Smith. He served from 1965 to 1969 and is renowned for his efforts in abolishing capital punishment, introducing environmental reforms, and improving the state’s roadways. Unfortunately, the house had deteriorated over time, evident through graffiti and neglect that affected its structure.
The fire has added challenges to the redevelopment plans for the site. The Justice family, who owns Bellwood Corporation, had been working on revitalizing the property and the nearby Briar Patch Golf Course by transforming it into a mixed-use development. The ambitious plans involved incorporating commercial and residential spaces, senior living facilities, and even a nine-hole golf course. However, Bellwood’s request for a $19.5 million Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district to secure funding for the project was rejected in 2023, causing a setback in their progress.
A Troubling Chapter in Beckley’s History
The Smith residence, which has been destroyed, holds significant historical value as it is associated with one of West Virginia’s progressive governors. This unfortunate event brings attention to the concerning problems of negligence, criminal activities, and the complexities involved in preserving historical sites while promoting modern development.
The ongoing legal process highlights the alarming speed at which history can vanish, as the fire becomes a powerful symbol. It also prompts us to reflect on the responsibility we have to care for neglected properties in West Virginia.
