3 Charged After Victim Hit with Machete During Burglary in Marion County

Authorities say the suspects broke into a home and assaulted a victim with a machete.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Three people have been charged in Marion County, West Virginia after a victim was allegedly hit in the head with a machete during a burglary. According to police, Quinnessa Johnson-James forcefully entered a residence, struck the female victim in the head with a machete, and caused a laceration. Quintajia James and Zandal Tatum were also charged for conspiring with Johnson-James and aiding in her attempted escape.

Why it matters

Violent home invasions and burglaries are concerning incidents that can traumatize victims and raise community safety concerns. This case highlights the risks of such crimes and the importance of prompt police response and thorough investigations to hold perpetrators accountable.

The details

Police say they responded to a report of someone kicking in a door at a residence on Columbia Street around 12:34 a.m. on March 9. When they arrived, they found two victims, one of whom had a laceration on their head from being struck with a machete. An investigation determined that Quinnessa Johnson-James forcefully entered the home, assaulted the female victim with the machete, while Quintajia James and Zandal Tatum conspired with Johnson-James and aided in her attempted escape.

  • The incident occurred around 12:34 a.m. on March 9, 2026.

The players

Quinnessa Johnson-James

An 18-year-old charged with burglary, malicious assault, and conspiracy.

Quintajia James

A 25-year-old charged with conspiracy.

Zandal Tatum

A 25-year-old charged with conspiracy.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The three suspects are currently being held at the North Central Regional Jail as the investigation continues.

The takeaway

This violent home invasion underscores the need for continued vigilance and community-police cooperation to address burglaries and assaults, and ensure the safety of residents in the Marion County area.