LEWIS COUNTY, WV — Former West Virginia State Delegate Doug Skaff Jr. was killed Tuesday afternoon in a car accident on Interstate 79 near Jane Lew, according to reports. He was 48.
The crash occurred around 4:15 p.m. near mile marker 101 in the southbound lanes between the Jane Lew and Weston exits. Emergency responders, including HealthNet, were dispatched to the scene. I-79 southbound was temporarily shut down as crews worked to assess the situation. Authorities have not yet released details about how many vehicles were involved or the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Skaff was the president of HD Media, which publishes the Charleston Gazette-Mail. In 2024, he assumed the role of interim president of the West Virginia Press Association.
Skaff’s death has sent shockwaves across the state, particularly in his home community of Kanawha County, where he was widely known as a public servant, businessman, and devoted family man.
In a statement released Tuesday evening, the Kanawha County Commission expressed its deep sorrow over the tragic loss. Skaff, who served multiple terms in the West Virginia House of Delegates and most recently held leadership roles within the Democratic Party, was remembered as a committed advocate for his constituents and a dedicated family man.
“I’ve known Doug for nearly 25 years, and I am absolutely devastated,” said Commission President Ben Salango. “Tera and I are praying for his wonderful family and friends.”
Commissioner Lance Wheeler added, “Doug Skaff was more than just an elected official. He was a true champion for his community, a family-first man, and a friend. My family and I extend our deepest condolences and prayers to his loved ones.”
Commissioner Natalie Tennant echoed those sentiments, calling Skaff “a true public servant who loved his family, his friends, and his church.” She noted his recent efforts to help revitalize Fazio’s Family Restaurant, describing him as a man with both vision and heart.
Skaff was a longtime fixture in West Virginia politics and business. Outside of his public roles, he was known as a devoted Christian, husband, and father to three sons. The Kanawha County Courthouse will lower all flags on county property to half-staff in his memory.