West Virginia Secretary of State Survives Car Crash

Kris Warner was traveling to Pendleton County for voter registration and business events when the incident occurred.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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West Virginia Secretary of State Kris Warner said he walked away without serious injury after a crash on Friday while traveling to Pendleton County for a voter registration drive and a business awards presentation. The incident occurred along U.S. Route 33 at Judy Gap as Warner was en route to present three Centurion Awards to businesses that have operated continuously for 100 years in Pendleton County.

Why it matters

As the state's top election official, Warner's safety and ability to carry out his duties is of paramount importance, especially in the lead-up to an election. The crash highlights the risks that public officials can face while traveling for official business, particularly on rural roads.

The details

According to Warner's social media post, the crash occurred along U.S. Route 33 at Judy Gap as he was traveling to Pendleton County. Warner was on his way to present Centurion Awards to three local businesses that have operated continuously for 100 years in the county.

  • The crash occurred on Friday, February 16, 2026.
  • Warner was traveling to Pendleton County for a voter registration drive and business awards presentation.

The players

Kris Warner

The Secretary of State of West Virginia.

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What they’re saying

“I walked away without serious injury after a crash Friday while traveling to Pendleton County for a voter registration drive and a business awards presentation.”

— Kris Warner, West Virginia Secretary of State (Social media)

What’s next

Authorities will investigate the cause of the crash to ensure Warner's safety and the integrity of his official duties.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of public officials' safety and their ability to carry out their responsibilities, especially in the lead-up to elections when their work is critical to the democratic process.