Man Barricaded in House Commits Suicide, Police Say
Man Barricaded in House Commits Suicide, Police Say Save Email Print
Posted: 3:28 PM Sep 3, 2008
 Last Updated: 10:30 PM Sep 4, 2008
 Reporter: Mike Waterhouse
Email Address: mike.waterhouse@wsaz.com
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UPDATE @ 10:41pm
Police in Boone County tell WSAZ.com that Jessie White was found dead in his home on Route 17 in Ottawa after a nine-hour standoff.

According to investigators, White shot at officers, officers returned fire, and then it appears White shot himself.

Police tell us they later threw smoke canisters into the house, and there was no response from White.

Our crew reports hearing more than 100 shots fired during the standoff.


UPDATE @ 10:34pm
At about 7:30 p.m. Wednesday evening, our crew at the scene heard several shots fired.

Within the last hour, family members were seen talking with police, and they appeared to be devastated. No official word yet what happened.


UPDATE @ 6pm
NewsChannel 3's Kallie Cart spoke with the daughter of the man inside the home.

Cart reports that Jessie White is the man inside the home. According to his daughter, Mr. White and his wife separated recently after more than forty years of marriage.

Mr. White's daughter says her father has several loaded guns in the home.

The road remains closed.

UPDATE @ 4:41pm
911 dispatchers say the man is still barricaded in the house. No one else is inside with him.

Officials at nearby Ramage Elementary School tell WSAZ.com that all of the students have been released from the school, and the ones that needed to travel Route 17 are taking an alternate route.

So far, no one has been hurt during this standoff.


ORIGINAL STORY @ 3:28pm
OTTAWA, W.Va. (WSAZ) -- Boone County 911 says a man is barricaded inside a house in the Ottawa area, causing Route 17 to be shut down.

The incident is ongoing, and additional police officers have been called to the scene.

According to Greg Lay with Boone County 911, no one has been hurt, and the road has been shut down for precautionary purposes.

Lay also says there is a fairly large power outage in the Danville-Madison area, causing an additional traffic mess. No word yet what caused the outage.

WSAZ has a crew on the way to the scene. Keep clicking on WSAZ.com for more information.

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Posted by: A on Sep 11, 2008 at 03:27 PM
Amem Sharon...... If people don't have anything nice to say they need to shut up..
Posted by: Sharon on Sep 11, 2008 at 02:05 AM
Sadie,this is for you.You have more friends than you know.We are not shouting it from the rooftops because we don't have to.We know what good people you,Jess and your family are.Nothing in this whole heart wrenching situation could ever change who you are or the love your friends have for you.This is no ones fault and no one is to blame.Choices are made and things happen.It's called life. As for the narrow minded,got nothing but misery to give,think they know it all,nosey,high and mighty busy bodies.. They don't count for anything!! Their opinion DOES NOT matter!! They need to watch their step because your friends are out there,and we are listening and we will give them the courtesy that they are denying you,we will tell them face to face what miserable low life useless piece of flesh they really are.I personally could name a few you work around that I can't wait to see.I have a few choice words of my own.So for those of you who love to gossip,be sure to look before you speak.
Posted by: john on Sep 9, 2008 at 06:14 PM
You people can say what you want there is a lot to this situation that you dont know.Unless you were there getting fired upon dont slam the police.Many of the guys getting fired upon knew Jessie for years including myself.He was pleaded with for hours to end this situation.I know Vonny and feel bad for her and the family.Make no mistake about this he was in control of the situation and ended it on his terms. When you shoot at the Police they shoot back and what would you do if your a cop and a bullet whizes by your head you shoot back.I am lucky I never had to make that decision I had left the Sheriffs dept that morning because the career of a police officer was just not for me but the 22 guys in the Sheriffs dept will forever be my brothers.This whole thing is tragic for all involved but everything possible was done to try and end this.
Posted by: A on Sep 8, 2008 at 09:41 AM
I just read cindy on sept 6 9:02pm... What businees is it of anybody's what goes on in the bedroom of either Mr or Mrs. White. That shows how stupid you really are. Everybody want's to point fingers when in reality yes it was terriable and yes maybe it could have been prevented but who knows. It might not have been able to be avoided either.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 6, 2008 at 07:44 PM
I want to first off by saying that I am a wife of a police officer that was there, for all of you who think you know everything, you dont!!! He shot first AT POLICE OFFICERS!!! All "100" shots were not from bullets!!! Alot of the shots were from pepper spray bullets. They were shot in from a window of a huge garage ,so they had to shoot alot to fill the garage up. Dont act like you all know everything that went on and dont bash the police. Try to think of the police officers wife/husbands, children, parents, and friends. No one is at fault. Just a sad situation and my thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends.
Posted by: cindy on Sep 6, 2008 at 09:02 AM
i guess that him finding out his wife was having a affair with a black man pushed him over the edge...
Posted by: Concerned Parent on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:29 PM
Thanks to the school system for taking care of my child during this time and the teacher for taking his own time to ride with them. Also thank you sheriff's department for not letting my child travel through a dangerous area.
Posted by: Truth on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:24 PM
Thanks for setting the record straight Buddy. Now if those complaining about that would just read and understand your details they can stop about that. Second, medical reports indicated that the guy had one wound, self inflicted. Quit blaming the police and don't bash the man. He had lots on him and apparently felt it was his only way out. Don't criticize what you don't undersstnad, the man, police, or even his family for what they have done to him. It's not fair to any of them. I'm glad the police didn't let anyone else get hurt, even those foolish enough to want to run right in the middle of a deadly scene.
Posted by: Jena Lee on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:18 PM
I have know Jessie and his family for a long time now. He would do anything in his power to help someone in need. I am deeply sorry to hear of such a tragedy. He has helped me and my family in hard times, during my fathers death even and has always been a pillar of the community. I know he will be missed by all those who knew him and I greatly give my sympathy to his daughter, Vonnie, and his grandchildren. Time will heal but it seems to take forever. I have lost my father and I know from experience that there is always a special bond between a father and his daughter. My thoughts and prayers will be with all the family every day. Just remember to keep on looking forward and not back, for yourself and your siblings. They need you a lot. God, bless them all and send comfort.
Posted by: Ottawa resident on Sep 5, 2008 at 09:48 PM
Sept. 3 was a terrible night for everyone in close proximity. I would like to respond to Boone neighbors comment. How can you be so sure what ballistics will show? Are you physci? I think not because you didn't know that most of the neighbors were in their homes, sober and shaken by all the gun shots. None of my neighbors do drugs and most of the residents along that stretch of road don't use drugs. Yeah, theres a few idiots and druggies around, but not limited to Ottawa. I've lived here most of my life and most of the people here are hard working, sober citizens. Don't judge the whole community for what a few people do.
Posted by: Buddy on Sep 5, 2008 at 08:42 PM
I was the teacher on the school bus with the Boone County students. These students were able to use the restroom and they did have enough to drink. We left Ramage Elementary approximately at 4:15 on Wed. and the last student was released from our bus around 6:45.
Posted by: linda on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:26 PM
I MYSELF DID NOT KNOW THIS MAN BUT HIS FAMILY HAS ALL MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS.I KNOW WHAT THEY MUST BE GOING THROUGH I DO AGREE THAT THE POLICE DID NOT HAVE TO SHOT 100 TIMES THE MAN WAS INDEED DEVASTATED OVER THE LOSS OF HIS SON ,NOW YOU USE SOME COMMON SENSE AND THINK HOW YOU WOULD FEEL IF IT WAS YOUR CHILD?NOT TO MENTION THAT YOUR WIFE OF 40YRS LEAVES YOU GIVE THE POOR MAN A BREAK HIS LIFE WAS SHATTERED PUT YOURSELF IN HIS SHOES FOR A MINUTE,YOU NEVER KNOW HOW ANYONE FEEL'S UNTIL YOU HAVE BEEN THERE YOURSELF SO ITS NOT YOUR PLACE TO JUDGE ANYONE!!PERSONALLY I KNOW HOW HE FELT I LOST MY HUSBAND OF 30YRS AND ITS BEEN THE WORST THING I HAVE EVEER HAD TO DEAL WITH SO I KNOW HOW HE FELT CAUSE YOU SEE I HAVE BEEN THERE SO YOU PEOPLE NEED TO BE PRAYING FOR HIS FAMILY NOW CAUSE I BELIVE HE PROBERLY DID NOT SHOT HIMSELF AND HE'S IN A FAR BETTER PLACE THAN WE ARE NOW HE'S WITH THE LORD LOOKING DOWN ON ALL YOU STUPID PEOPLE AND I THINK IF THEY HAD LET HIS DAUGHTER TALK TO HIM IT WOULD !
Posted by: Sam on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:24 PM
To Jon Nelson: Do you think 10 hours was enough time for a person to think about what he was doind? What about daughter and wife going around the community for several days telling people he was going to kill them and then himself? I now hear that the man himself was out in the community several days before telling people he was going to kill himself. How do you use a taser if you can't get close to him without being shot by him? I feel soory for Jessica, but daughter and wife need to look at EXCATLY what set this in motion several days ago, and it wasn't police. If you were that close to the man, you know the real answers, quit blaming everybody else.
Posted by: hello on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:19 PM
Did anyone ever think that since Mr. White was shooting at the police to kill them, that the police were shooting for cover fire, If I was a betting man, the police were not even shooting toward Mr. White, Because obviously If they shot that many times, we would have been full of bullet holes. It's obvious those shots we've heard were cover fire to let the officers move back to stay out of harms way!!!!
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 02:30 PM
Aside from this NOT being Jesco White, he is a person too. He doesn't deserve to be bashed either. What kind of people do we have living in this county??? All everyone wants to do is cut people down. What a sad world we live in!!
Posted by: Beck on Sep 5, 2008 at 01:56 PM
How could he be a public threat when there was no public around? Anywhere...3 rounds, hundreds of shots each time, I live so close I heard them all. People, if you don't know what happened and didn't know Jesse just don't say anything. I'm telling you that Jesse and his family ARE great people. My thoughts and prayers are with the White family and have been for years...
Posted by: A on Sep 5, 2008 at 01:22 PM
Ok.... I will say this again so that Anonymous on Sept 4,2008 at 11:58 will understand. This was NOT Jesco White. It was Jesse White different men. I guess the saying is true. You can't fix stupid. I really hope the family hasn't read your comments.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 12:47 PM
This man Jessie White was not Jesco White. These our two completely different people!!
Posted by: Joe on Sep 5, 2008 at 12:33 PM
Get you facts straight "Anonymous" this is not the person for lack of a better word you are thinking of. This was JESSIE WHITE. He was a good man and nothing like this or the Jesco you are refering to. I grew up in that garage along with Jessie's son Sonny. Jessie was a role model. So get your facts straight before you start comparing good men to the people who give Boone County a bad name or don't say ANYTHING.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 12:16 PM
Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:58 PM he was not jesco white the dancing outlaw
Posted by: Kris on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:55 AM
Lord some of these comments on here are horrible i cant believe that human beings are writing such stuff. First of all this was not Jesco White it was Jessie White and my family knew him and he was a kind man. His family does not need to read some of these comments on here so when people go and start to make comments have some common sense and think about the family and what they are going through. My thoughts and prayers go out to them and i hope they can get through this horrible situation.
Posted by: A on Sep 5, 2008 at 11:47 AM
Ok First of all Anonymous at 11:58 this is not jesco white it is jesse white. Read the previous comments. I guess it is true you just can't fix stupid no matter how hard you try. If you would have read the comments you would know exactly who this man was.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:56 AM
THIS IS NOT JESCO WHITE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Posted by: Jon Nelson on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:23 AM
First off, this is absolutely NOT JESCO WHITE. Jesse White was my best friend, despite our difference in age. We have talked for hours on end and I continued to visit him even when I moved from WV. These trigger happy cops need to be hung. I understand doing everything you can do to rectify a situation, but over 100 gunshots is absolutely ridiculous. Anyone ever heard of a TASER? I seriously doubt Jesse killed himself, since Vonnie with her own words said the cops killed him. Anything except live rounds would have worked to save this man. All Jesse needed was time to think about his situations. No one gave him that time. He was pressured and rushed and acted irrationally. I'm sure his family called the police with the best intent, but obviously, this made the situation worse. Vonnie, Sadie, & Jessica, I love you all. You are my family. This hurts me so deeply. I can't stop crying. I hope these cops are forced to stand trial for their actions. Poor decisions by everyone
Posted by: John on Sep 5, 2008 at 08:46 AM
Jessie was my friend but I completely understand that when a situation like this comes up, the police need to PROTECT the public. No way they could have let a civilian "go in there". Jessie was a troubled individual. I think it's a shame that it came down to this, but face it, there's only so much you can do for someone. They must want to be helped in order to get help in a situation like this. Police have standard operating procedures for incidents like this and in NONE of these SOPs will it allow a civilian to "go in there". It doesn't work that way. Thinking that it will work that way is a pipe dream. While I'll miss Jessie, I won't hold it against the officers that were there. It's their job to handle situations when they turn bad and this one turned bad.
Posted by: Chris on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:30 AM
Did you see the begining of that video? I cant stand when people stand around and be nosy! People go home let the Police do what they need to do, what do you think your going to see by standing there staring at a house? I was in a car wreck in Milton a year ago, you wouldnt believe how many people stood along the sidewalk starring at me and my car! I asked the officer on the scene what he thought about it and he said his self he cant stand it eather. PEOPLE GO FIND SOMETHING BETTER TO DO THAN STAND THERE AND STARE!!
Posted by: family friend on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:54 PM
Living here all these years, knew Jessie and Sadie for over 30 years, Both are great people, Sad to see life had to come to this for them, Knowing them tho, I really think if the family could of talked to him, he might of stood a chance, Jessie loved Vonnie, and was close to her, But we will never know and the decision was not in our hands, Im not putting police down, I think they where just doing what they thought to be best, It is sad tho when people have a problem that is so big they cant see past it, we will never know what was going thro Jessie mind, But now we need to show love, and remember if it was us Jessie would be there for us, Hold Jessie family up in your prayers.
Posted by: Harold on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:48 PM
How righteous can some of you be? Have a problem that took years to develop and gets to it's absolute worst, beg the police to do something then bust on their actions. You have no idea what they went thru to try and get him out safely, but surely to goodness you don't expect them to standby and let him shoot at them, do you? If that's the case, and you're ever in trouble, or in danger, please don't call for police, because if they follow your suggestions, they won't be able to help you.
Posted by: Boone neighbor on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:47 PM
People, please try and use some common sense. Ballistics tests will show that the bullet that killed White came from his own gun and not police. Also, police could have NEVER allowed his daughter to go in there and "talk" to him. The man was angry, suicidal and loaded with guns. If police would have let her in there and something bad would have happened (on accident or not) then you would be blaming the police, saying why did they let her go in there? The only person at fault here is Mr. White. He was troubled, depressed, making threats, fired at police and then took his own life. That's all there is to it. Nothing more, nothing less. *** Also, it's downright pathetic that most of the neighbors hanging around the scene last night were doped up on drugs. Several were talking about using crack and one idiot said he wanted some XANAX. He had small children with him. It's a true shame.
Posted by: Barbara on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:37 PM
This is a sad story,although the facts may never come out as to why Mr White decided to take his life you can't blame the family or the police force. I heard that he never got over losing his son,this is a tough one to deal with I'm sure .Maybe he just couldn't take the stress anymore. But wheather you like it or not our police force are there when we need them.They put their lives on the line and in the line of fire everyday and some of them make a little more than men wage! And beleive it or not some of them are elegible for food stamps because they don't make enough to take care of their families, and this my friends stinks!So the next time you see a cop tell him how much you apreaciate him. If a disaster would happen here in Boone County, Who do you think would be on the front line,you got it,and for that I for one say God bless the White Family at this terrible time and God bless our Police Force. Stay safe out there guys!
Posted by: MARILYN on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:33 PM
THIS SHOULD HAVE NEVER ENDED LIKE THIS. I BELEIVE IF THEY WOULD HAVE JUST LET HIS DAUGHTER TALK WITH HIM HE WOULD STILL BE HERE WITH US. JESSIE WAS A GREAT MAN. HE WOULD HAVE NEVER HURT HIS DAUGHTER! ALL OUR PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY!
Posted by: scared on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:29 PM
From the amount of shots fired...how can they be SURE that he killed himself?? I just don't understand why SO MANY shots were fired. I doubt the police will admit it, if it was infact one of their shots that killed Mr. White. This whole situation is very sad. I can not imagine going through this...All I can and will do is pray!!! ....
Posted by: Sara on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:23 PM
After reading and watching the video, it's sad that some of these people ran to get as close as they could to see a very horrible and tragic situation, and saw exactly that, and then want to be critical of officials in how they handled things. It was heard over cordless phones that he was going to kill his wife and daughter if he could get either there. That's why the police wouldn't let either of them go, and they don't care, it's all somebody else's fault. Wife needs to look at why White was upset. It is well known in the area of her affair with other men, one particularly, and White had enough, when added to the anniversary of losing his son. There's much more than can be added. He was a very good man that was treated unfairly by his family. Look in the mirror, not in the community for the problem.
Posted by: kathy on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:11 PM
jessie was friends with alot of the officers on the boone county police department i know his friends did not want to heart him or have to make the chouse to kill him they loved and cared for jessie like every one in are communty did i don't blame them i wish jessie famliy all the love and prays they can get from are comunity my family is praying for them all
Posted by: Tammy on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:30 PM
My heart goes out to this family I didn't know him.but my sister and brother in-law knew him and said he was a real nice guy I just feel so sorry for the family my heart goes out to them may God give them peace comfort them in their time of need.I know I was on the phone with my sister last nite and she only lived like three houses from him and I'm telling you I told my sister I hope I never hear anything like that ever again.it sound like war breaking out and my sister went all to pieces I mean it was awful and I was on the phone so I know what she must have been going thru.and this man was nothing like Jesco.I so sorry for your loss.my heart goes out to you.God Bless you all and may God be with you.My Thoughts and Prayers are with the family.~TAM~
Posted by: Jeff on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:22 PM
So tell me Samantha, what would you have done different and please go into detail??? I guess you must be an expert in dangerous situattional scenario resolution.
Posted by: Samantha on Sep 4, 2008 at 09:50 PM
This is another example of our sheriff's department letting a situation go on for so long that it ends in tragedy. There are a few good men on the force, but not many. My heart and prayers goes out to the family!
Posted by: JIM on Sep 4, 2008 at 09:47 PM
When all options have been exhausted and I do mean all options, then force is required. From what everyone who knew this person, I find it hard to believe that all options was used.
Posted by: Mark. S on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:29 PM
Jesse was a great friend and will be sadly missed, He was a true friend..R.I.P jesse my friend.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:54 PM
I think that Tim should learn how to pronounce the towns and citys in West Virgina if he is going to report about them.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:14 PM
To annon. at 6:07PM. Another fine graduate of "Verbal Advantage" am I right?
Posted by: Boone County Girl on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:09 PM
My thoughts and prayers are with the White family. Sheriff Miller should have allowed Vonnie to speak with her father if she was wanting to. She could have been his saving grace. I think Miller needs to be held accountable for his decision. I have been around him and his family for several years. They are the type who will only speak and do for certain people. Miller is a poor representative for Boone county and should not have got to make the decision on whether or not White was allowed to have contact with his family.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 06:07 PM
to the people that are hatein on the police..if you where gettin shot at i bet you a million dollars you'd shoot back
Posted by: AL on Sep 4, 2008 at 05:59 PM
If you shoot at the police you are bought and paid for.
Posted by: Brenda on Sep 4, 2008 at 05:39 PM
Our prayers go out to this gentleman's family. How difficult it must be to deal with this man's taking his own life and shooting at police officers prior to that incident. From all accounts, it seems like the Sheriff and the State did everything in their power to prevent this tragedy, up to and including keeping the wife and daughter from being harmed as well. From everything I have read, when parents lose a child, marital problems are almost assured. Seems like this family has strugged with that a great deal. When things like this happen, I wish people would drop to their knees and pray for all involved, instead of crowding around to get a look at it. I hope everybody who reads this will say a special prayer for this family and the police, all of whom must be having a terrible day. God Bless You All. You will be in my prayers
Posted by: eatmyshorts on Sep 4, 2008 at 05:25 PM
For you guys that think the police wanted to killed this man, u should try and be a cop, HUH??? thats right u take the chance of not coming home to your family every single day and see what your persective would be, Just try and put yourself in a police officers shoes and times it by about 500... I am not a police officer but my heart goes out to every single law enforcement officer out there... Police officers are unique men and women all over the world, I'm sure they have the most stressful jobs you could ever imagine. Police officers train all the time for situations like this, and now you know why. Once this investigation is completed and it proves to be suicide, I think everyone that has posted negative remarks toward our " Honorable Law Enforcement Officers" should also take the time to leave an apology... Thank You, A Concerned citizen for the County of Boone!!!!!!!
Posted by: Lynn on Sep 4, 2008 at 02:50 PM
Thank God he did not have the soon to be ex wife in the house. It might have been murder/suicide!
Posted by: Daryl on Sep 4, 2008 at 02:47 PM
I was hearing all of this on my scanner and I was hoping for a better outcome for Jesse and it looks like the problems that came upon him were way to much for him to handle.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 01:29 PM
WERE IS THE REST OF THE GUN FIRE SINCE THEY FIRED ON HIM 3 DIFFERENT TIMES. BUT HE KILLED HIMSELF BULL
Posted by: a good friend on Sep 4, 2008 at 01:19 PM
jesse white was a good friend to every one he would give you the shirt off of his back if you needed it. is daughter is a very good person to so every one please pray for her and the whole white family .please everyone remember that every one reads this so be nice of what you say (this is not jesco white)
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:43 PM
rest in peace Mr.White.living with depression is very hard and people just don't understand the pain.
Posted by: to wsaz on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:29 PM
i think you people who look over these messages should omit any commets that are,nasty,off subject,or offensive to the family.this is not necessary.put your feet in their shoes wsaz.god bless this family.
Posted by: Lisa on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:28 PM
This is such a waste. I have knew Jesse for years and I know things happen in life that we all get down about and want to change but sometimes we can't and just can't handle anymore. I only wish that it had never came to this. To all the family my prayers are with you and I pray God gives gives you peace and wraps his lovin arms around you. I know things will never be the same because you never get over loosing a loved one but remember that he want you to go on and want only the best for his family. May God Bless and comfort you all with his sweet sweet spirit.
Posted by: What! on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:19 PM
I can't believe some people here are blaming the police. If this man would have escaped and shot an innocent person, you would have blamed the police for not killing him when they had the chance. For God's sake!
Posted by: Dee on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:51 AM
Folks...If you shoot at the police, they will shoot back. It couldn't be more clear than that. Whether this man killed himself or not isn't the issue, he seemed to be a public threat at that time.
Posted by: A on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:47 AM
No this was not jesco white....
Posted by: Ashley on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:30 AM
I dont know the man or the situation. THERE WAS NO REASON FOR THAT MUCH GUN FIRE TO BE EXCHANGED! If a man/woman wants to be depressed or whatever and baricade themselves in their house with loaded gns and threaten suicide that his or her right. A loving family member or friend has the right to call police to try and stop him however how is it known that he really shot AT police first instead of killing himself. this was unneccessary and my heart goes out to the family and friends....
Posted by: Beck on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:30 AM
I have known Jesse White for more than 11 years of my life...he has always been a great man to me and everyone else who has came around. He never judged a book by its cover or by what other people said. So to all of you people out there who didn't know him, knowing him was a great privelage, and you wouldn't ever forget him...for the man he was....He always said...."Vonnie, Chevy never made a body like that...." I love you guys forever. My thoughts, prayers and love are with you all (Sadie, Dale & family, Vonnie & Jessica Lynn also Joselyn) I Love ya'll
Posted by: mk on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:29 AM
I feel so sorry for this man and his family. May GOD comfort you all.My thoughts and prayers are with you.GOD BLESS...
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 11:24 AM
You don't know if a bullett from the Sheriff's office killed the man or if he killed himself. Although they will be able to determine by the bullett in the man. I think the deputies did a great job and were very professional. The man shot fire at them first, did people want the cops just to smack his hand and ask him not to do it again? I feel very sorry for the family and don't wish this upon anyone. It sounds like he was a great man and just couldn't handle anymore. But I don't see where people can get off blaming the police. It was a NINE HOUR standoff. They didn't try to hurt him. They have to protect themselves and each other was well.
Posted by: kj on Sep 4, 2008 at 10:31 AM
vonnie, we are so sorry for the loss of your father, just keep strong and always remember the great things about your dad loe and prayers
Posted by: william on Sep 4, 2008 at 09:36 AM
Well I guess Boone countys finest finaly got a chance to shoot there guns.Great job guys,What ever happened to helping people.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 09:24 AM
no no no this is NOT jesco white
Posted by: been there on Sep 4, 2008 at 09:01 AM
I agree with the police, if somebody wants to kill themselves, they will do it no matter what.. I don't know all of the details but I do know suicide and I know what it does to families. I don't understand why people feel so desperate to not think about anything or anyone but their own thoughts and pain at that moment. It doesn't matter that you have children, parents and siblings out there that love you and are going to grieve over you. It shatters lives... I know its been 10 years since suicide struck our family and it seems just like yesterday. I will never forget the images... Oh yeah, lets not forget about the people that are so eager to pass out blame to people who do try to help out. Talking to this guy would not have done any good, he was so intent, so desperate at that time it was beyond talking it out. Now comes the if's, if only I had done this or if only I had done that he would still be alive. No he wouldn't, its destiny....
Posted by: DEE on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:53 AM
I think the media, needs to let everyone know, this is not "Jesco" the famous dancing outlaw. Sounds like Jessie, is a much better guy.
Posted by: sad sad day on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:50 AM
mr.whites family I'm really sorry about every thing u are going throw right now the only thing i can say is that you will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Posted by: Lisa on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:42 AM
I have known Jesse for 5 years and this is not the Jesse White I know. Jesse was a very caring man who cared about his community and the people in it. He was the only man that I knew who would let my handicapped child play football and encourage him to do his best. My son received several honors that year in football. We all have circumstances in our lives that cause us to do things we normally wouldn't do and I believe this is the cause of what happened. Jesse was upset and didn't have no where to turn. I'm not saying that killing yourself is the answer, but I believe Jesse was just depressed. My heart and prayers go out to his family and especially his grand-daughter Jessica.
Posted by: Mindi on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:39 AM
I didn't know Mr. White or his family, but by reading all the remarks by those who did, I know the world will miss the kind of man he was. Some people make a difference in the lives of others and it sounds as if he was one of those special people. None of us was with him when he made the decisions he did that lead to his tragic end, none of us have ever been in that position, and none of us have a right to judge or point fingers. My husband is a good man who works hard and gives to others, and I keep putting myself in the position of how shocked everyone would be if it were him at the center of this story. It's inconceivable to me as I'm sure it is to everyone that knew Mr. White (NOT Jesco, by the way). Please remember him as he was before this event, not as he ended. My thoughts are with the family in this tragic time.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:22 AM
So i just got home from work and read that they are saying this is a suicide. You have got to be kidding me. Anyone who was in the neighborhood or watched the video above can not possibly say this was a suicide. I will never be able to understand why they shot so many times, but i guess there will always be lots of questions like why in this world did they not let Vonnie talk to her daddy??? May god put a healing hand on the hearts of Vonnie, Dale, Grandchildren, and also the Eplin family.
Posted by: fuzzy on Sep 4, 2008 at 08:10 AM
I believe that Sheriff Miller and the wonderful and professional deputies that serve Boone County made a professional and safe decision by not letting the family near the house. There main goal is to protect the citizens, and that is exactly what they done, Some people look at this differently as if the family would have talked to him, everything would be okay, but the police perspective is placing theirselves in the worst situation possible. Im not saying this would have happened, but what if the man shot a family member. For years to come Sheriff Miller along with his men would have been blamed for putting the family at risk, and thats a risk that should not have been made. I believe that the Boone County Sheriffs Dept, and WV State Police acted out their duties to their full potential... GREAT JOB GUYS
Posted by: A on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:35 AM
I just read all the comments that have been left. I do not understand how people can be so awful. Jesse was a great person. He fixed your car, talked to you when you needed a friendly ear and didn't ask for much in return. I'm not saying he was perfect but he was a great person. When he did the WDR Football league he tried to clean make it a decent place for the kids. A place that was drug free. He spent many of hours there when nobody else would come help. I've known Jesse for several years and never saw a bad side of him. I'm really at a loss of words. I don't see how the police can say immediatley after it ended that he took his own life. What about all the gunfire that was exchanged. I just want to say that my thoughts and prayers are with his family. The community needs to pull together and help this family in this time of need. They don't need to point fingers and spread more rumors than already have been.
Posted by: Connie on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:09 AM
Mr. White was well know man in Boone County and he would never had done nothing like this to hurt his Granddaughter who attends Madison Middle in the six grade she was his pride and joy. People seen to be having more trouble this days dealing with everyday life. Time are really changing. Mr. White will be Missed by all who knows him. He has done many goods deads for people in need in his area!!
Posted by: ERIK on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:08 AM
VONNIE, I AM SORRY FOR WHAT YOU HAVE HAD TO GO THROUGH.YOU TOLD ME THAT YOUR DAD WAS HAVING A HARD TIME AND NOW I REALIZE HE WAS REALLY HURTING INSIDE LIKE YOU HAVE BEEN. I KNOW IT HAS BEEN HARD ON YOU AND WHAT HAS HAPPENED IS TERRIBLE. I WISH THEY WOULD HAVE LET YOU TALK TO YOUR DAD. I FEEL THEY WERE WRONG IN NOT GIVING YOU THE OPPORTUNITY TO TALK TO YOUR DAD BECAUSE I HAVE HEARD YOU ALL TALK BEFORE ON THE PHONE, AND THERE WAS A LOT OF LOVE THERE. I KNOW YOU AND YOUR DUGHTER ARE HURTING REAL BAD. I AM SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. I NEVER THOUGHT IT WOULD COME TO THIS. YOU SAID YOUR DAD WAS UPSET AND NOW I REALIZE JUST HOW BAD HE WAS HURTING. I LOVE YOU AND YOUR DAUGHTER AND I AM HERE FOR YOU IF YOU NEED ANYTHING. I WILL HAVE MY GRANDMOTHER PRAY FOR YOUR FAMILY AND YOUR DAD. I WILL SEE YOU SOON.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 07:06 AM
Tim Irr should learn how to correctly pronounce names of our West Virginia towns. It isn't Ottaway or Ottway. It is Ottawa.
Posted by: wanda on Sep 4, 2008 at 06:33 AM
Jessie was a good man. He always had a kind word for everyone. He will be greatly missed. This is not the Jessie that this community knows. Everyone please pray for his family. They are suffering horribably. Jessie may you rest in peace. The community will miss you.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 05:46 AM
Jesse was a good family friend. We have been friends with him and his family for over 25 years. He never has gotten over the death of his son (Sonny). The last time I saw Jesse he was still having a lot of pain from a car accident that happened in recent years. Maybe all this played a part in what happened. He will be missed by his friends and family. Our prays go out to Sadie, Vonnie,Dale and Grandchildren.
Posted by: annon on Sep 4, 2008 at 03:52 AM
HOW IN THE WORLD CAN THEY SAY THIS MAN SHOT HIMSELF...HE WAS IN A GARAGE AND WITH THAT MANY SHOTS FIRED THEY CANNOT BELIEVE THAT PEOPLE ARE GOING TO BELIEVE THAT HE WAS STILL ALIVE AFTER THAT...MY THOUGHT AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO HIS FAMILY...SUCH A SAD WAY FOR ALL OF THIS TO END
Posted by: tim light on Sep 4, 2008 at 03:02 AM
I am very sadden by the loss of a good friend and nieghbor. This man would give you the shirt off his back. He has come to my need on many occassions, and for that am gratful. I only wish i could have done something to prevent this. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family. And also i don't thank any the officers were in any danger, because he probably knew all of then as friends.
Posted by: Debbie on Sep 4, 2008 at 01:57 AM
Heartrenching...My thoughts are with you all.. Vonnie and Sadie we use to work together and I am so sorry for the unexplainable emptiness and devastated emotions that have crushed you and your mothers HEARTS, now is truly the time we all must pray and give our support to the family.. Sadie I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT IS RUNNING THROUGH YOUR MIND but IT WASN'T YOUR FAULT ... Truly sadden for you all... Debbie
Posted by: Friend on Sep 4, 2008 at 01:51 AM
I think his daughter could have made a change.If they would have let her talk to him.Jessie you will be missed our thoughts and prayers go out to you Vonnie and Jessica.
Posted by: bridgett on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:46 AM
Heartbreaking.....My prayers are with his daughter and grandchildren.....
Posted by: anon on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:45 AM
I feel extremely sorry for the family of this man. The pain they must be going through.
Posted by: Tim Light, Jr. on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:40 AM
Jessie White was a good man, if he could help anyone out he would.I've known Jessie for at least 20 years, he repaired my cars...quite a few times lol, but no matter what anyone says or thinks if you didn't know the man...you missed out, because he was a good friend, a good neighbor, he was always there to pick you up when you was down...Jessie White will be missed by MANY...my condolences go out to his family...Sadie, Vonnie, And Jessica, I love you guys and if you EVER need anything...I'll try my best to do what that man has done for me so many times...this county won't be the same without Jessie White............
Posted by: dS on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:22 AM
what sad news. my prayers are with his family.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:07 AM
I didn't know Mr White or his family but I do have family living in that area and I'm sure the entire neighborhood has suffered from the events that transpired today. My thoughts and prayers are with them all.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 4, 2008 at 12:02 AM
This is a terrible tragedy. Jessie White was a good man..... My thoughts and prayers are with his daughter and the whole family...
Posted by: kathy on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:43 PM
today something offal has happened today a good man has died i pray for his family tonight and i hope every one else is to they need all the prayers they can get from all of use so please every one that reads this pray for the white family tonight thank you all
Posted by: Carol on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:30 PM
I think it's a shame that Jesse wanted to talk to his daughter & her with him & they weren't allowed to talk. I just hope that she can get thru this. Sometimes protecting someone requires letting them talk things out with the people they love. But we'll never know how this would've turned out. I'm so sorry for the family. Me & Curtis both are. May God help U thru this.
Posted by: tonya on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:26 PM
jessie white was a very good person everyone please pray for his family and help them through this matter god bless them all
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:25 PM
My prayers are with the family.
Posted by: Kathy S on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:23 PM
This is SO sad. A terrible ending for him, his wife and their family. Especially their children. I guess after that many years of being together, he just broke. Such a sad sad thing. My condolences go out to his family especially his children and to his wife as well. I'm sure she never meant for it to come to this for any of them. I don't know any of them either but my heart aches for all of them and for him that he had to come to this point in his life. Clearly his mind just snapped at being without her or he just didn't feel life was worth living anymore. What a loss for everyone involved. My thoughts & prayers are with all of them tonight.
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:16 PM
This is a bad day, not only for the White family, but for the community as a whole. Jessie and his family were good people! Everyone thought a lot of him, his wife and their children and grandchildren. Please pray for the family, we need to support them with lots of love, let's not leave any negative comments. They need lifted up, not knocked down more. They need our prayers and support. Someday you may be down and out and need some help, treat others like you would want to be treated if you were in their shoes. Again, Jessie and his family are good people who now need our love and support. I am praying for the White family, their friends, and the community.
Posted by: anonymous on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:14 PM
My heart goes out to you Vonnie. I pray that u and ur mom will get through this tragic time. Please know that people do care and are praying for your family. Take care~an old high school friend=)
Posted by: Amy on Sep 3, 2008 at 11:10 PM
I don't mean to offend anyone, but is this the famous Jesco White that had the documentary out? I have watched that video a million times and will be very sad if it is the same Jesco.
Posted by: Heather on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:59 PM
This is a terrible thing to hear and it is obvious that Mr. White had loved his wife and didn't want to lose her... Luckily no one trying to protect Mr. White was hurt.. and hopefully the daughter and separated wife will be fine and any other family members not mentioned but affected by this horrible event will be fine as well.
Posted by: Shannon on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:55 PM
I don't know this person very well or the situation but i hope everything goes ok.....no need to put anyone down or anything people go through fazes in life....but we have to be strong and have faith in GOD that he will help us through this.....So I will pray for him and his family they need prayer right now......So I hope everyone is safe from this crisis....
Posted by: kathy on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:37 PM
i know jesie and his family thay are good ppl and every one that is makeing comments about stuff they don't know about need to mind there own buisness and live his family alone and just pray for them instead of makeing stupied comments
Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:30 PM
Please keep in mind that family reads these for updates as to not bother the family. Please be considerate.
Posted by: Dakota on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:22 PM
i live a few houses down. it all started out that he started shooting near the gas station "dempseys" and ran into his house and held himself hostage. he is now dead. they had three rounds of shooting, and i'm guessing that one of those shots got him. they said that his daughter was wanting to talk to him, and he wanted to talk to her also, but the cops wouldn't let them speak. who knows, she could have changed his mind and changed his life.
Posted by: Phyllis on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:18 PM
Jessie White was a very good person, people go through bad things, and some just can't handle it..But making some of the comments you are making, is awful, pray for his family, not insult them
Posted by: Kelli & Lori on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:08 PM
It is a shame that people have to be so ignorant that they have to make STUPID comments about a tragic situation. Didn't your mother tell you if you don't have anything NICE to say DON'T say ANYTHING! ! ! My Families Thoughts & Prayers are with the family tonight. We Love You All...
Posted by: amerie on Sep 3, 2008 at 10:01 PM
Does anyone know what has happened. We heard it did not go well. But the news has not updated the webpage.
Posted by: jack on Sep 3, 2008 at 09:59 PM
jessie is a good man, iam here for you jessie .
Posted by: Carol on Sep 3, 2008 at 09:50 PM
This man is a human being & people need to pray instead of making stupid remarks like some of these people. Jesse helped my husband get his start in life. This is very hurtful to us. May God bring him & all the police out safe!
Posted by: hope on Sep 3, 2008 at 09:39 PM
jessie was a good man with a good heart.its a shame what people will say when they dont know anything about this man or his family
Posted by: Heather on Sep 3, 2008 at 09:29 PM
I'm not sure how anyone can find this humorous... Jessie is a fine man with a heart of gold. Clearly he is having some sort of mental episode--I would expect some empathy for him and his family during this time as opposed to these insensitive remarks. What is wrong with you that you feel the need to make such comments???
Posted by: DDCJ on Sep 3, 2008 at 09:13 PM
40 years of marriage, that's sad. I hope and pray this man will not harm himself. He needs help.
Posted by: jesse on Sep 3, 2008 at 08:40 PM
what is the big deal he has not shot the gun and he is at his house with guns. i thought that we were allowed to have gun in our home.
Posted by: jay on Sep 3, 2008 at 08:01 PM
its a shame that any of this has to happen and if he comes out alive it will be all on him nothing will be said to his wife who was cheating on him. the poor guy just needs some help
Posted by: Wilbur Hunter on Sep 3, 2008 at 07:37 PM
Lots of gun fire..My mom lives across the road from him..Pray for them
Posted by: Cheri and Al on Sep 3, 2008 at 05:41 PM
I see that Sheriff Miller and his men are out there protecting the citizens of our county again. Great job Sheriff!! We only wish you could serve THREE terms
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