Cold case task force takes on Huntington’s prom night murders

PRESS RELEASE

Twenty-one years ago, the community of Huntington, West Virginia was rocked by a quadruple homicide of four teenagers. The teens, who attended the Huntington High School Prom, were shot and killed later that night in front of a Huntington residence, a horrific event now referred to as the “Prom Night Murders.” The victims were Megan Poston, age 16; Michael Dillon, age 17; Eddrick Clark, age 18; and Donté Ward, age 19. 

Investigation by the Huntington Police Department (HPD), though wide-ranging, has never resulted in an arrest. That may soon change, says state Senator Mike Woelfel, who has represented the area since 2014. “The victims and their families deserve accountability and justice,” said Woelfel. “A neighbor reported she heard voices pleading for their lives. I am grateful to announce that the West Virginia State Police Cold Case Task Force has now opened an investigation into the Prom Night Murders.”

“The Legislature passed House Bill 4799, which established a Cold Case Task Force within the West Virginia State Police. The legislation went into effect in June,” said Woelfel. Woelfel indicated that Lt. Paul Dick, the 2026 WV State Trooper of the Year, will lead the task force. “One of the Task Force’s first acts was re-opening the 2005 Prom Night Murders case,” said Woelfel. “In my view, the additional manpower and technological resources will produce a break in the case.” The Huntington Police Department will retain the case and lead the investigation. “HPD detectives are some of the finest anywhere,” said Woelfel, “and I believe this agency alliance will likely result in prosecution of the evildoers.”

The Cold Case Task Force provides the needed resources to allow communities another chance at justice. “Huntington is, in a way, a small town,” remarked Woelfel. “I know members of each of the victims’ families. Their pain and grief are ongoing. They, along with our town, deserve to truly see justice done.”