Kaden Ashby, James McDaniel, Kaiden Radford and Colton Garcia, four young men from the Beckley, West Virginia, area, died in a devastating motor vehicle accident near Charleston late Friday night, August 21, 2026. Their sudden deaths have left their families, friends and the wider community mourning four lives lost far too soon.
According to Charleston Police, the vehicle was traveling near the Interstate 77 and Interstate 64 split when it struck a concrete barrier. The vehicle then went off the elevated interstate and fell into the Martin Marietta Charleston Yard below. All four occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.
The news has brought an outpouring of grief throughout Beckley and surrounding communities. Friends and community members have shared memories of the four men, remembering them for their friendships, kindness, humor and the connections they formed with those around them.
Kaiden Radford was remembered by people who knew him as a respectful and caring young man. Former coach Bobby Sanger Jr. spoke fondly of their years together, describing Kaiden as someone who held a special place in his heart.
Kaden Ashby was also remembered through heartfelt tributes celebrating his kindness, laughter and ability to make others feel welcome. Friends recalled fishing trips, conversations and other everyday moments that have become treasured memories following his unexpected passing.
James McDaniel and Colton Garcia were likewise mourned by friends and loved ones, with tributes emphasizing the close bonds shared among the four young men.
The circumstances surrounding the crash remain under investigation. Authorities have not publicly established what caused the vehicle to leave the roadway, and additional details should await official findings.
Funeral and memorial arrangements for the four men had not been fully confirmed in the available information.
Their deaths have left four families facing an unimaginable loss. Kaden, James, Kaiden and Colton will be remembered through the memories, friendships and moments they shared with the people whose lives they touched.