MARSHAL COUNTY, WV — A heartbreaking end to a missing persons search has rocked both the local community in Marshal County, West Virginia, and the city of Buffalo, New York. Marshal County Sheriff Mike Dougherty has confirmed that the four individuals who had been reported missing from Buffalo were found deceased following a single-vehicle crash late Saturday evening.
The victims were identified as Dr. Kishore Divan, Mrs. Asha Divan, Mr. Shailesh Divan, and Mrs. Gita Divan—members of a close-knit family who had been traveling together when tragedy struck. Their vehicle was discovered on Saturday, August 2, at approximately 9:30 p.m., after authorities located it down a steep embankment off Big Wheeling Creek Road, a rural and winding roadway in Marshal County.
Upon discovery of the crash site, first responders remained on the scene for more than five hours, working tirelessly to recover the vehicle and the victims with the utmost care and respect. Due to the terrain and the depth of the embankment, the recovery effort was both physically and emotionally challenging for all involved.
Sheriff Dougherty, who personally confirmed the identities of the deceased, issued a public statement expressing deep sorrow and extending heartfelt condolences to the grieving families:
“This is a profoundly tragic outcome, and on behalf of the Marshal County Sheriff’s Office, I want to extend our sincerest sympathies to the Divan family and all those affected by this loss. Our hearts go out to their loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
The Divan family had reportedly been reported missing after losing contact with loved ones while traveling. Their disappearance had prompted a multi-agency search effort, including coordination between law enforcement in New York and West Virginia. As hours passed with no word, concern grew rapidly, ultimately culminating in the discovery of their vehicle and the tragic confirmation of their fate.
At this time, investigators have not released specific details about the cause of the crash. The vehicle was found off a steep and potentially hazardous stretch of roadway, leading authorities to suspect that the vehicle may have lost control while navigating a curve or incline. Weather conditions, road visibility, and mechanical factors are all expected to be considered as part of the ongoing investigation.
Autopsies and toxicology reports will be conducted, and the full circumstances surrounding the crash are being reviewed by the West Virginia State Police and local traffic reconstruction experts. Officials say further information will be released once the investigation is complete and the findings have been reviewed.
Dr. Kishore Divan was a respected member of the Buffalo community, known for his contributions to medicine and his dedication to family and service. The loss of all four family members has stunned friends, neighbors, and professional peers alike.
In Buffalo and across communities in West Virginia, many have begun mourning the loss with tributes, memorial plans, and messages of support for the family’s loved ones. Social media has been filled with heartfelt messages expressing shock, grief, and prayers for peace.
As the investigation continues and the families begin the process of laying their loved ones to rest, this tragedy serves as a solemn reminder of how fragile life can be and the importance of road safety, especially in unfamiliar or rural areas.
Grief counselors and community support services are being made available in both Marshal County and Buffalo to assist those impacted by this loss. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the family at a later time.
The Marshal County Sheriff’s Office asks that anyone who may have witnessed a vehicle matching the Divans’ during the days leading up to August 2, or who may have helpful information, contact authorities to aid in the investigation.
For now, a family is gone too soon, and two communities are left mourning their memory—united in heartbreak and searching for healing in the face of profound loss.