RANDOLPH, WV, (April 28, 2026) – Authorities have charged a Beverly man following a Tuesday afternoon crash in Randolph County that resulted in the death of a passenger and injuries to the driver.
According to the Randolph County Sheriff’s Department, a silver 2012 Ford Fiesta was traveling along the 3400 block of Georgetown Road at approximately 3:30 p.m. when it veered off the right side of the roadway. The vehicle descended a hill, entered a stream, struck a concrete culvert, and overturned onto its side.
During the crash, a passenger was ejected from the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene by the West Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. The identity of the victim has not yet been released.
The driver, identified as 31-year-old Sidney Austen Brenwalt of Beverly, sustained injuries and was transported to Davis Medical Center for treatment.
Investigators reported that Brenwalt showed signs of impairment, including bloodshot eyes and the smell of alcohol. He admitted to consuming alcohol prior to the crash. A preliminary breath test revealed a blood alcohol content of 0.164, which is more than twice the legal limit. He also failed a standard field sobriety test.
Brenwalt was subsequently arrested and charged with DUI causing death. He is currently being held at Tygart Valley Regional Jail on a $100,000 cash-only bond. Authorities also believe speed contributed to the crash.
The incident remains under investigation by the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office and the West Virginia State Police.
