RIPPON, W.Va. — A Berkeley County man is dead after police say he drove into construction equipment this week at the work zone near Rippon.

Franklin Runion, 60, of Inwood, died Wednesday evening on Rt. 340 South.

Lt. Rob Sell with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department says Runion failed to negotiate a right hand curve in the new construction zone and struck barrels and a dirt embankment before the vehicle rolled multiple times.

Runion died at the scene.

The cause of the accident is under investigation.

Meanwhile, Taylor Farms Water Hauling out of Inwood posted a tribute to Runion, who was also known  as Jaybird. Runion reportedly drove for them for two decades before retiring:

It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of one of our own and a former driver of 20 years, Franklin “Jaybird” Runion. He was involved in a car accident.

Even though he retired in 2023, customers still call me and specifically ask for him to deliver their water. When I tell them Jaybird no longer works for us, they always say, “Oh no! We love Jaybird” and usually tell me a funny story. He loved people and loved filling pools! … The family has set up a GoFundMe to offset some of the funeral expenses. Jaybird touched the lives of many. If you know Jaybird, you know what I’m talking about. If you have it in your heart to donate, Jaybird and the family will be forever grateful.

Author: [email protected]